Charge Nurse

Job Description – Charge Nurse (RN)

The Charge Nurse is a licensed Registered Nurse responsible for coordinating and overseeing clinical operations within the Pain Management ASC. This leader ensures safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care throughout pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-anesthesia phases. The Charge Nurse provides clinical guidance to nursing and ancillary staff, assists physicians, maintains regulatory compliance, and promotes an environment focused on patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction.

Department:
Pain Management Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC)

Reports To:

Clinical Director / Nurse Manager
FLSA Status:
Exempt

• Oversees daily clinical workflow, patient flow, and staffing assignments across Pre-Op, Procedure Rooms, and PACU.
• Serves as clinical lead and resource for nursing staff, ensuring adherence to evidence-based practice and ASC policies.
• Collaborates with physicians, anesthesia providers, and administrative leadership to ensure smooth operation of the center.
• Triages changing patient acuity and procedural needs, adjusting staffing and scheduling as needed.

• Provides direct patient care within scope of RN practice, including assessment, IV initiation, medication administration, and monitoring during pain management procedures.
• Ensures compliance with sedation protocols and safety standards.
• Oversees pre-procedure patient education and post-procedure discharge instructions.
• Advocates for patient safety, comfort, and privacy throughout the continuum of care.

• Ensures adherence to all ASC regulations, including CMS, OSHA, AAAHC/Joint Commission, and state nursing practice requirements.
• Participates in quality improvement initiatives, incident reporting, root-cause analysis, and performance audits.
• Maintains accurate and timely clinical documentation.
• Ensures proper infection prevention processes and equipment sterilization compliance.

• Provides guidance, mentorship, and support to nursing staff and medical assistants.
• Assists with onboarding, competencies, training, and performance evaluations.
• Promotes a collaborative and positive work environment.

• Coordinates daily readiness of the ASC including supplies, equipment, emergency drugs, and operational checklists.
• Participates in policy and procedure development and updates.
• Acts as a liaison between clinical staff and management.
• Responds to emergencies and performs charge-level responsibilities such as incident management and escalation.

• Current and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of employment.
• Minimum 2–3 years of RN experience in pain management, perioperative nursing, PACU, critical care, or related specialty.
• Prior charge or team-lead experience preferred.
• BLS and ACLS certifications required; PALS preferred (if applicable).

• Strong clinical judgment and ability to lead in a fast-paced ASC environment.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in EMR documentation and ASC clinical workflows.
• Knowledge of sedation practices, pain management protocols, and regulatory standards.

• Ability to stand for extended periods, assist with patient positioning, and lift up to 30–50 lbs as needed.
• Exposure to moderate noise levels, medical equipment, and clinical environments.
• Must be able to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.

Our ASC is committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered pain management care through teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and clinical excellence.