Job Summary: The Nursing Charge is responsible for promoting and maintaining quality patient care through effective management of the activities of the total patient Nursing Charge has the authority and responsibility for a

Carries out hospital/nursing policies, procedures and standards. Visits all patient care units to ascertain condition of patients, evaluate staffing needs and provide support to caregivers.

Ability to adequately assess and reassess pain. Utilizes appropriate pain management techniques. Educates the patient and family regarding pain management.

Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.

Supports and maintains a culture of safety and quality. Administers the effective distribution and utilization of staff employed during the respective shift.

Coordinates and evaluates services rendered by and to all departments during the respective shift on an ongoing basis.

Keeps the Nurse Executive, his/her representative and/or the Administrator informed regarding circumstances or situations which have or may have serious impact.

Uses good judgment in ensuring adherence to established hospital procedures and policies.

Informs staff on ensuing shift regarding condition of patients, follow-up actions required and any special conditions.

Participates on various committees. Participates and assists in the planning and providing of inservice education programs within the hospital or other meetings, seminars or institutes conducted outside the hospital.

Participates in patient care meetings and inservice education functions. Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills. Evaluates and documents performance of employees as indicated and communicates this information to the Patient Care Manager.

Assumes the duties as outlined in the Emergency Management Manual.

Demonstrates Competency in the Following Areas:

Follows Pharmacy protocols for obtaining drugs when the Pharmacist is unavailable. Evaluates accuracy of staffing systems.