Charge Nurse

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES (include but are not limited to the following)

Leadership & Operations

· Supervise nursing staff, delegating responsibilities to ensure adequate staffing based on patient acuity and census.

· Serve as a liaison between staff, leadership, and other departments, promoting a professional and collaborative work environment.

· Conduct regular rounds in all 24/7 nursing units, including inpatient and emergency departments.

· Assume direct patient care duties as needed during high census or unforeseen circumstances.

· Review nursing documentation, monitor care levels, and oversee admission guidelines and discharge planning.

· Assist with after-hours case management, insurance utilization, and skilled referral reviews.

· Provide IT and pharmacy assistance as needed after hours.

· Recommend and implement process improvements for efficiency and patient care quality.

Patient Care & Safety

· Assess, diagnose, treat, and evaluate patient care throughout the hospital.

· Supervise and maintain accurate patient records, including medication administration and treatment plans.

· Provide clinical guidance and decision-making support to nursing staff.

· Respond to emergencies, including rapid response situations and medical crises.

· Ensure proper use of specialized equipment and maintain adequate medical supplies.

· Educate patients and families on diagnoses, treatment plans, medications, and discharge instructions.

· Act as a patient advocate and serve as a liaison between medical staff and patients/families.

Team Collaboration & Development

· Promote a culture of learning by mentoring staff, assisting in new employee orientation, and providing ongoing education.

· Encourage a positive work environment through coaching and constructive feedback.

· Collaborate with the nurse manager to enhance departmental patient experience scores.

· Assist in developing and reviewing policies and procedures as assigned.

Administrative & Compliance

· Ensure compliance with hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.

· Maintain accurate documentation and oversee workflow adjustments to manage patient care effectively.

· Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling, including working additional hours or adjusting shifts as needed.

· Ensure timely attendance and arrive before scheduled staff members.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

· Strong leadership, delegation, and problem-solving skills.

· Clinical competence in caring for pediatric through geriatric patients.

· Ability to operate complex medical equipment and apply nursing best practices.

· Excellent communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to work in a fast-paced, regulated healthcare environment.

· Strong ethical standards and a commitment to high-quality patient care.

· Effective time management and attention to detail.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

· Graduate from an accredited school of nursing.

· Current Iowa RN license or eligibility for reciprocity/work permit.

· Minimum 3-5 years of clinical experience preferred.

· Previous supervisory experience preferred.

· Certifications:

Required: ACLS
Preferred: PALS, TNCC