Perioperative charge nurse gives direct care and oversees the care given by other surgical services personnel. The Charge Nurse orients staff members, participates in evaluating their performance and provides continuing education. The charge nurse is responsible for securing and maintaining the supplies and equipment necessary for the delivery of care. The charge nurse reports to the Director of Surgical Services.

Supervises staff registered nurse, staff licensed practical nurses and non-professional staff workers. Plans work, set priorities and delegates patient care functions so that work is equitably assigned based on competency and ability of others. Inclusive of age specific competency. Assumes responsibility for care of patients assigned closely supervises assists and/or cares for the acutely ill patient. Report pertinent information to the oncoming staff members. Demonstrates sound clinical judgment, makes fair decisions and acts as intermediary for patients and families, primary caregivers and physicians. Ensures completion of daily assignments and ensures staff uses appropriate CPR, Fire, Disaster, Infection Control Standards and Joint Commission regulations. Ensures integrity of crash cart and procedure carts daily. Obtains report on all patients on unit. Reviews daily patient assignments, communicates with Director and recommends changes as needed. Assigns and supervises extra duty assignments to see that they are completed i.e.; ensure stock orders are competed per materials management schedule. Assigns meal and break times. Identifies and implements changes related to physical plant, distribution of supplies and/or work performance that enhance staff efficiency and safety. Supervises staff member quality and quantity of work performed and recommends changes as needed. Maintain accessibility of self or primary nurse for physician's rounds and procedures as needed. Anticipate potential problems and take steps to avoid them. Assists Director with suggestions for budget allocations to support the needs of the staff. Ensures completion of orientation/contract labor checklist and competencies in conjunction with preceptor. Assists Director to plan for staff conferences. Provides Employees with ongoing informal feedback. Provides Director with input on staff member evaluations. Encourages other staff members to maintain a positive and collaborative demeanor. Verifies and double checks all orders in collaboration with primary nurse. Drafts new policies and procedures as needed for the Director's approval. Ensures all nursing procedures are implemented according to protocol. Serves as a role model for all team members by setting an example of high standards in dress, conduct, attitude and performance. Coordinates calls and verbal communications to physicians (in collaboration with primary nurses and supervisor after hours) of changes in patient's acuity. Review reported lab and culture results, ensures they are accurately filed and communicated to primary nurse and physicians and take action as needed. Verifies and double checks all orders in collaboration with primary nurse. Assists Director with Quality Improvement

Qualifications

Education: Graduation from a school of nursing with a current Florida license

Experience: 2 Years experience in Specialty Unit required.

Licenses/Certifications: BLS and ACLS certifications required.