Charge Nurse

Job Description – Charge Nurse (RN)

Department: Pain Management Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC)
Reports To: Clinical Director / Nurse Manager
FLSA Status: Exempt 

Position Summary

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.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Clinical Leadership & Coordination

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.

Patient Care

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.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

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.

Staff Development & Supervision

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.

Operational Responsibilities

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.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

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).

Skills & Competencies

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.

Physical & Work Requirements

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.

Statement of Culture

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