What Is a Trauma Program Manager and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A trauma program manager (TPM) develops and oversees all operational nursing issues related to emergency trauma care at a hospital or medical facility. As a TPM, you manage all nurses in the trauma center and report to the trauma program director. Your responsibilities include improving the flow of patients through the center, coordinating care systems for different types of trauma, and contributing to the development and implementation of clinical treatment for all trauma patients. In performing your duties, you work closely with other nurses, physicians, surgeons, and medical staff to ensure this program is working smoothly and to address any issues in care delivery.

To become a trauma program manager, you must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and be a registered nurse. Most positions also require you to have several professional certifications in addition to being a registered nurse. Depending on the state or employer, these qualifications may include being a Certified Emergency Room RN, Certified Critical Care RN, and having Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification. You must also have several years of healthcare experience, preferably in a trauma care position, including some managerial experience. Important skills include supervision, analytical thinking, and strong verbal and written communication.