RESUMO
The paper expounds the important position and role of department heads and head nurses in the ideological and political work of the hospital from the perspectives of ideological and political work, professional management and individual quality of the cadres. It sets forth the exceptional features and advantages department heads and head nurses enjoy in conducting ideological and political work, including timeliness, relevancy, authoritativeness and extensiveness. The paper also discusses ways for department heads and head nurses to give full scope to the functions and advantages of ideological and political work: ①carrying out propaganda and education so as to enhance understanding; ②conducting professional training so as to improve skills; ③giving assessment and inspiration so as to guarantee results, and ④practicing what one preaches so as to set an example for others.