Objective To summarize the experience of nursing management in rapid construction of a Fangcang shelter hospital to admit COVID-19 patients. Methods We rapidly converted an exhibition center into a Fangcang shelter hospital, including allocation of health professionals, redesign of spaces, preparation of beds, medical devices and supplies to support care, monitoring, and sheltered living, formulation of work procedures and regulations, patient information verification, observation and monitoring of patient′s condition，and management of emergency condition during patient admission. Results A total of 684 patients were admitted in a short time. No medical incidents for patient safety occurred and none of medical professionals was infected. Conclusion Adequate personnel and material preparation, complete system and process, as well as emergency response to critical conditions, are essential components in rapid construction of Fangcang shelter hospital for COVID-19 patient isolation and care.