These postings usually do not include internally-posted positions within a facility. In some cases, a BSN is preferred, but this is dependent on the facility.Ĭharge nurses can work in a variety of settings such as:Ī quick search for “charge nurse” through this RN job board yielded thousands of results - from full-time to part-time and on-call, the opportunities were plentiful. Many healthcare facilities offer charge nurse positions to nurses who have clinical experience, as well as experience in leadership (i.e., nurses who have acted in a relief charge nurse role or have demonstrated leadership abilities as a staff nurse). A small amount of travel may be necessary in this position due to the managerial aspects of the job, as charge nurses are sometimes required to attend offsite meetings. Aside from hospitals, charge nurses can be employed in medical clinics, physician's offices, nursing homes, urgent care clinics, and other specialized medical care facilities. Where Do Charge Nurses Work?Ĭharge nurses are needed in many different medical settings. Charge nurses in specialty units may also need to earn credentials or certifications specific to that department. Basic life support, pediatric life support, advanced cardiac life support, and CPR certifications are all either required or preferred for RNs applying to charge nurse positions. There is no credential or certification specific to charge nurses, but many have other certifications. Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed? Experience is also important, and up to 5 years of clinical RN experience may be required for some charge nurse jobs, so this is not necessarily a career choice geared toward new nurse grads. RNs with higher degrees, such as an MSN degree, may stand out more to employers, since this position requires a higher amount of knowledge and responsibility. Hospitals and other health facilities typically hire charge nurses who hold at least a BSN degree and have passed the NCLEX-RN. What Are the Education Requirements for Charge Nurses? To search and apply for open charge nurse positions, visit our job boards. Able to efficiently and skillfully assess medical situations and expedite care.Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Provide everyday guidance, support, and direction to staff.Responsible for supervising licensed and unlicensed team members and staff throughout the facility.Must be able to move, lift, and position patients.Able to provide direct care to patients.Exact requirements can fluctuate based on the state and the employer, but in general, those looking to become charge nurses will want to be able to do the following:

The following are typical skills mentioned in charge nurse job descriptions. Since charge nurses can work in different wards or departments, gaining experience in a particular specialty (like ICU, labor and delivery, etc.) is a good idea if an RN thinks they may want to eventually become a charge nurse in that niche. Once a degree and RN licensure is earned, RNs will generally need a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a clinical setting before they can get hired as a charge nurse.

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