Lead Charge Nurse

Lead Charge Nurse

Location: Aurora, Colorado 80014

Department: Nursing

Employment Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To: Nurse Manager

Supervises: Nursing Staff & Medical Assistants

Join our behavioral health team as a Lead Charge Nurse and make a meaningful impact on patient care and staff excellence. In this leadership role, you'll oversee nursing operations during your assigned shift, fostering a collaborative and efficient workplace environment while maintaining our commitment to quality client care. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced nurse ready to step into a leadership position and help shape the future of our nursing department.

• Lead and manage nursing personnel operations during assigned shifts
• Assist the Nurse Manager in developing and implementing short and long-term departmental goals
• Review medical policies, procedures, and care plans annually in collaboration with the Nurse Manager and Compliance team
• Oversee the medical admission process and nursing/client care workflows
• Coordinate with providers and interdisciplinary departments to ensure seamless, efficient client-centered care
• Evaluate, document, and monitor staff performance according to established policies
• Mentor, coach, and support the professional development of nursing staff

• Perform comprehensive nursing duties in the detox unit, including client assessments, medication administration, lab draws, IV management, vital signs monitoring, and clinical assessments
• Conduct nursing assessments, complete intake documentation, and ensure accurate, timely charting in the EMR
• Administer medications and provide client education regarding medications, side effects, and contraindications
• Monitor clients for adverse reactions, behavioral escalation, or clinical decline (including suicide/homicide ideation) and document appropriately
• Respond promptly to medical-related issues and emergencies with clinical expertise and composure
• Provide backup clinical support during staffing shortages or unexpected absences
• Maintain genuine, caring professionalism and therapeutic rapport with clients

• Oversee compliance with medical record documentation standards in the EMR system
• Maintain and monitor departmental expenses within established budget parameters
• Assess efficiency and processes of the department, identifying opportunities for improvement
• Conduct daily narcotic counts and maintain accurate medication inventory
• Order, inventory, and maintain clinical supplies and medications
• Maintain organization of files, binders, records, and the nurses' station
• Maintain the Infection Control Log monthly
• Give and receive nursing reports at shift changes
• Prepare for and participate in monthly staffing meetings
• Notify the on‑call Practitioner, Counselor, or Nurse Manager of clients in acute distress or facility issues
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support unit operations

• Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Healthcare Administration, or related field
• Current Colorado or Compact RN or LPN/LVN License
• 3-5 years of inpatient care experience
• Current CPR certification
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook
• Experience with medical/behavioral health EMR applications
• High moral and ethical values with mature judgment and professional behavior
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent organizational and prioritization abilities with effective delegation skills
• Strong problem‑solving and critical thinking skills, particularly under pressure
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Conflict resolution and de‑escalation expertise
• Commitment to…