What makes a good and efficient charge nurse? A good charge nurse should be open-minded and fair. They must understand the evidence-based nursing practice. A charge nurse must be a leader who can make difficult decisions quickly.
Roles And Responsibilities
From the word itself, the Charge Nurse is in charge of ensuring that the clinic runs smoothly and efficiently. Assigns tasks and supervises support staff based on their level of training and the severity of the patient's condition. Works to ensure the quality of patient treatment in collaboration with medical practitioners.
Furthermore, charge nurses are responsible for a variety of nursing functions and management, supervision, and administrative responsibilities. Charge nurses keep the hospital functioning efficiently by coordinating with the general nursing staff.
Qualifications Required For A Charge Nurse
A bachelor's degree in nursing from an authorized nursing program is required of a Charge Nurse. In order to practice as an RN, they must also have passed the local nursing board. Emergency measures certification, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, basic life support, and advanced cardiac life support, are also required. Certification in a specialty field, such as pediatrics or emergency care, is a benefit. A graduate degree in health services administration may be necessary for some individuals.
Charge nurses must have several years of experience as an RN and a track record of providing great patient care. Work experience in a supervisory capacity is also advantageous. Many hospitals and clinics prefer to hire a Charge Nurse with experience in both general and specialty nursing.
Qualities Of A Good Charge Nurse
Here are some characteristics of an excellent charge nurse:
Expertise In The Nursing Practice
Many hospitals do not allow just anyone (especially novice nurses) to take on the role of charge nurse for a reason. A charge nurse must be familiar with facility and unit policies as well as current medical and nursing best practices. They are expected to mentor and advise fresh grad nurses and nurses who are new to the facility as a lead nurse. It gets quite difficult to do so if a charge nurse is not well-versed in current guidelines.
A Good Leader
To keep a well-organized ward, a good Charge Nurse combines their nursing skills with a willingness to lead. They should be able to stay calm under pressure in order to serve as a role model for other nurses on busy or stressful shifts. In addition to being well-organized, a competent Charge Nurse should be proactive. This allows them to keep a consistent supply of supplies on hand to better serve their patients. Charge Nurses should be personable in order to foster a positive work environment and make patients feel cared for.
Flexibility
The workday of a nurse is unpredictable. Admissions, discharges, and the intensity of patient care can quickly devolve into chaos. As the unit's patient population changes, a strong charge nurse can adjust how resources are distributed. The charge nurse must adapt to new situations and navigate or overcome difficulties; they must make the best decision possible without the assistance of others.
Being a charge nurse carries a lot of weight, and being a nurse leader isn't easy. It may seem intimidating at first to become a charge nurse, but after you get the hang of it, you'll be astonished at how gratifying this profession can be.
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