Charge Nurse - Med-Surg in Boone, North Carolina at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

The Charge Nurse assumes a critical leadership role, providing guidance, coordination, and unwavering support in the delivery of high-quality patient care for a designated shift. Responsible for overseeing and supervising the nursing staff, collaborating seamlessly with interdisciplinary teams, and optimizing operational efficiency within the unit, this position necessitates exceptional clinical expertise, exemplary leadership skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Primary responsibilities encompass ensuring the utmost accountability for the quality of care delivery, seamless patient progression, and a commitment to service excellence. This encompasses fostering a patient-centered and professional work environment by utilizing the nursing process, promoting staff development and training, and fostering collaborative team interactions to elevate the standard of patient care. The Charge Nurse maintains regular collaboration with the Clinical Operations Manager and House Supervisor, working collectively to guarantee the provision of unparalleled patient care.

The Charge Nurse provides direct and indirect patient care services that meet the psychosocial, physical, and restorative needs of each patient. The registered nurse’s decisions and actions with patients and families are determined in an ethical manner, practicing compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and unique attributes of each person. Effectively communicates with patients/families, visitors, colleagues, physicians, leadership, and volunteers. All areas of nursing practice and care delivery are provided to achieve and maintain top-decile results and outcomes for patient experience, quality, and patient safety. The Charge Nurse follows and adheres to UNC Health Appalachian's policies and procedures, regulatory requirements, and standards of behavior. The Charge Nurse practices within the nurse practice act and their license.

The Charge Nurse demonstrates the UNC Health Appalachian's Mission, Vision, and Values in action and approaches work in a way that reflects action, efficiency, and personal accountability. The Charge Nurse demonstrates professional conduct, effective communication, and effective delegation of tasks. Effectively and professionally manages working relationships with coworkers, physicians, and all UNC Health Appalachian team members in a way that promotes a healthy work environment. Responds quickly and accurately to emergencies in the work environment and/or to changes in patient condition. Performs registered nursing duties under general supervision. Always assists coworkers, patients, families, and visitors regardless of the patient assignment, so long as the assistance is in-line with their scope of practice and license.

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with education and experience. Hiring compensation ranges from $33.25 - $48.21. This position is non-exempt and benefits eligible after a 60-day waiting period. This position also qualifies for shift differentials on top of base rate of pay.

Minimum Education

• Registered Nurse (RN) licensure in the State of North Carolina.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is preferred.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a inpatient nursing setting, with demonstrated competence and leadership abilities.

• Basic Life Support (BLS) issued by the American Heart Association is required at time of hire.
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) issued by the American Heart Association is required one (1) year from date of hire.
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) issued by the American Heart Association is required one (1) year from date of hire OR Emergency Nurse Pediatric Course (ENPC) will also be accepted.
• National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) certification is required one (1) year from date of hire.

• Strong clinical knowledge and proficiency in nursing practices and procedures.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to prioritize and make effective decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in using electronic medical record (EMR) systems and other relevant healthcare technology.
• Commitment to providing patient-centered care and promoting a culture of safety.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and holidays, as per unit needs.

• Lifting and Moving: Ability to lift and carry at least 50 pounds for patient transfers and equipment handling.
• Standing and Walking: Capacity to stand and walk for extended periods during patient care activities.
• Manual Dexterity: Precise fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination for performing delicate tasks like injections and wound care.
• Physical Stamina: Endurance to sustain focus and provide consistent care throughout long shifts.
• Bending, Stooping, and Reaching: Flexibility and agility for accessing supplies and assisting patients.
• Physical Endurance: Ability to handle physically demanding situations and emergencies.
• Visual and Auditory Acuity: Adequate vision and hearing for accurate patient assessment and response to alarms.
• Emotional Resilience: Capacity to manage stress, handle challenging patient situations, and maintain empathy.

About UNC Health Appalachian

It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.“

About UNC Health

UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen.

For accommodations or additional information, contact recruitment@apprhs.org.