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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

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

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

Certifications:
• 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.

Skills:
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) and other healthcare information systems.

Working Conditions:

• The role requires working in a high-stress, fast-paced environment with exposure to emergency situations and critically ill patients.
• Shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, is required.
• The position involves standing for extended periods and potential exposure to infectious diseases and biohazards.