1-Charge Nurse; Emergency Department;7PM -7AM

The Emergency Department (ED) Charge Nurse is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing the clinical operations and patient care activities within the Emergency Department during their assigned shift. The Charge Nurse ensures that patient care is delivered in a safe, efficient, and compassionate manner, while coordinating the activities of the nursing staff and other healthcare professionals. This role involves making real-time decisions to manage patient flow, allocate resources, and address any issues that arise during the shift.

The Charge Nurse reports directly to the Emergency Department Manager/Director.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is preferred; an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with relevant experience may be considered.

Licensure/Certification:
Current, unrestricted RN license in MO.
Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certifications, and trauma advanced certifications (TNCC, ATCN) are required.
Certification as an Emergency Nurse (CEN) is highly desirable.

Work Experience:  
Minimum of 3-5 years of clinical experience in an emergency department, with previous leadership or charge nurse experience preferred.

 

Skills:
a.)  Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
b.)  Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

c.)  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work
      effectively in a team.
d.)  Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) and other healthcare
      information systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES/JOB DUTIES:

Shift Leadership & Coordination:
Lead and coordinate the activities of the nursing staff, ensuring appropriate patient assignments and staff coverage.
Monitor patient flow within the Emergency Department, triaging cases as necessary and prioritizing care based on patient acuity.
Serve as the primary point of contact for all nursing staff during the shift, providing guidance, support, and decision-making assistance.
Collaborate with physicians, advanced practice providers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure cohesive and comprehensive patient care.

Patient Care Management:
Oversee the delivery of direct patient care, ensuring adherence to clinical protocols, standards of care, and regulatory requirements.
Participate in patient care as needed, particularly in high-acuity cases, providing hands-on nursing care and expertise.
Ensure that all documentation is accurate, complete, and timely, and that patient records are maintained according to hospital policies.

Crisis & Resource Management:
Respond to emergency situations and unexpected events, coordinating the response and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently.
Manage the availability and allocation of equipment, supplies, and medications during the shift, ensuring that the department is adequately stocked.
Address staffing issues, including calling in additional staff when necessary or reassigning duties to meet patient care needs.
Staff Support & Development:
Provide mentorship and support to nursing staff, assisting with clinical decision-making and professional development.
Facilitate the onboarding and orientation of new staff members, ensuring they are familiar with department protocols and procedures.
Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to nursing staff, addressing any performance issues or concerns.
Quality & Compliance:
Ensure compliance with all hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements during the shift.
Participate in quality improvement initiatives, identifying areas for improvement in patient care, safety, and departmental efficiency.
Monitor infection control practices and other safety protocols, ensuring a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
Communication & Collaboration:
Serve as a liaison between the nursing staff, physicians, patients, and families, ensuring clear and effective communication.
Participate in shift handoffs, providing detailed reports on patient status, staffing, and any issues that need to be addressed by the incoming charge nurse.
Work with the Emergency Department leadership team to implement department-wide initiatives and improvements.
Perform other duties as assigned. 
    
REQUIRED STAFF COMPETENCIES:

Demonstrates support for organizational and departmental mission.

Supports and demonstrates knowledge of the Strategic Plan and the Hospital Key
 Initiatives.

Fosters and promotes teamwork within department and the organization as a
whole.

Works to resolves conflicts constructively and in a timely manner.

Ability to communicate effectively and simply with every customer and co
worker.

Ability to display a positive, courteous and friendly attitude toward all contacts.

Ability to build good relationships with others based upon a sustained effort of
mutual support toward common goals.

Ability to exercise good judgment, reasoning and concentration to detail and to
take personal accountability for all actions in carrying out job duties.

Is customer focused and committed to Quality and Process Improvement with a
 strong desire to provide service excellence.

Possesses and displays a strong knowledge and understanding of the standards of
practice for their position including, if and when applicable, commensurate computer skills; population specific and general competencies; organizational skills, time and project management.

Possesses a vigorous and enthusiastic desire to learn and to grow both personally
and professionally, and to improve one's skills in order to deliver the best possible care for our customers.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

1.  The role requires working in a high-stress, fast-paced environment with exposure
      to emergency situations and critically ill patients.

2.  Shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, is required.

3.  The position involves standing for extended periods and potential exposure infectious diseases and biohazards.