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The Charge Nurse works under the supervision of the Director and Clinical Manager, and is responsible for the delivery of efficient, safe patient care through the use of the nursing process, hospital policies and procedures. In addition, the Charge Nurse directs nursing service activities in the department, delegates responsibilities to auxiliary and staff nurses; supervises preparation and maintenance of patient clinical records, and assists with reports on staff performance and services rendered as appropriate or requested. Assists with bed assignments, and various problems as they arise. Maintains preset inventory standards for solutions, supplies, medicines, equipment, and tracks narcotics and medications.

Position Details:

The Charge Nurse works under the supervision of the Director and Clinical Manager, and is responsible for the delivery of efficient, safe patient care through the use of the nursing process, hospital policies and procedures. In addition, the Charge Nurse directs nursing service activities in the department, delegates responsibilities to auxiliary and staff nurses; supervises preparation and maintenance of patient clinical records, and assists with reports on staff performance and services rendered as appropriate or requested. Assists with bed assignments, and various problems as they arise. Maintains preset inventory standards for solutions, supplies, medicines, equipment, and tracks narcotics and medications.

Patient assessment is managed by using the appropriate policy, protocols and standards of practice. Evaluates the appropriate documents, therapies, medications and patient responses to interventions. Interprets and initiates appropriate actions to changes in patient condition and monitoring data, including; vital signs, lab, diagnostic tests and monitor readings. Recognizes limitations, and seeking additional assistance if necessary. Acts as a clinical resource expert and sharing knowledge in the evaluation of patient needs.

The Plan of Care is supported by initiating, developing, evaluating and revising the Plan of Care. Incorporates patient and significant others involvement to support patient goals, as well as interdisciplinary plan of care. Reports pertinent information to staff and physicians and collaboration with the healthcare team to plan/provide patient care as evidenced by documentation. Works with Registered Nurses and Registered Nurses II to problem solve when necessary.

Treatment and evaluation is completed by obtaining, verifying and implementing physician orders and nursing interventions. Treatment and evaluation is completed by reassessing and documenting the patient's response to procedures, therapies, medications and interventions. Treatment and evaluation is completed by demonstrating or developing proficiency in performing and/or assisting in procedures and therapies according to policy and procedures.

The Charge Nurse provides patient education by assessing and utilizing methods based on the patient and significant other's knowledge base, communication skills, developmental age, ability and readiness to learn. The Charge Nurse provides Patient Education by demonstrating positive role modeling in patient interactions.

Documentation is provided by ensuring that the patient record reflects the plan of care, patient care delivered and the status during his or her care and discharge. Ensures that the documentation information is legible, concise, accurate, objective and timely, while meeting hospital standards.

Leadership is provided by directing and coordinating assignments and care given by team members based on staff competencies, experience and scope of responsibility. Identifies opportunities to improve patient care delivery. Enhances the learning opportunities to other staff, and by effectively contributing to the orientation of team members and students. Processes and collects data for performance improvement and monitoring outcomes. Leadership is provided by taking primary accountability to lead the patient care team, to prioritize, plan, organize and delegate patient care activities for current and upcoming shifts. Acts as a clinical expert related to compliance and regulatory issues.

The Charge Nurse acts as the Clinical Expert by providing oversight to include; scheduling, problem solving skills, duty assignments, and implementation of new protocols, policies and procedures. In addition, the Charge Nurse ensures all current infection control and safety standards are strictly adhered to.

The Charge Nurse assists with Department Organization by managing supplies and medications according to policy and procedure. Assigns staff based on appropriate skill mix. Provides excellent communications to Directors/Managers/Staff and Physicians related to the daily operations of the department. The Charge Nurse assists with Department Organization by facilitating timely patient admissions, transfers, and dismissals.

Exhibits dependability by attending Unit GEMBAs and any scheduled Unit meetings. Review GEMBA board each shift, check emails at least weekly and review meeting minutes as provided. Limits absences and tardiness in accordance to HR policy.

Qualifications:
Education: Graduated from a school of nursing (Associate's Degree, Diploma, or BSN).
Licensure: Is personally responsible for obtaining, and maintaining, a current RN license within the hiring state and/or compact licensure in which nursing duties are performed and must meet all state board of nursing requirements.
Physical requirements/demands:
- Position requires individuals to push, pull, and/or lift 50 pounds on a regular basis
- Position requires prolonged standing and walking each shift
- Position requires the ability to grip, reach, bend, kneel, twist, and squat to perform duties

Experience: two years RN in a critical care setting.

Charge Experience preferred.

Certifications:
- Basic Life Support certification through the American Heart Association or successful completion of course within 30 days of hire.
One or more of the certifications below may be required based on the position/unit hired to, or acquisition of certification within department required timeframe:
- ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)
- NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation Program)
- ENPC (Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course)
- TNCC (Trauma Nursing Core Course)
- CPHON (Certified Pediatric/Hematology/Oncology Nurses)
- OCN (Oncology Certified Nurse)
- BLS (Basic Life Support)
- PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)
- PEARS (Pediatric Assessment Recognition and Stabilization)
- S.T.A.B.L.E. (Sugar, Temperature, Airway, Blood Pressure, Lab Work, And Emotional Support) Six Assessment &Care Modules
- C-EFM (Fetal Monitor Certification)
- Other unit specific certifications as required
 

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32 hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.

keyword(s): RN, ICU, Ardmore

RN, ICU, Ardmore