Job Description

Surgical Charge Nurse

Position Summary

The Surgical Charge Nurse provides operational oversight and coordination of daily perioperative services to ensure safe, efficient, and effective patient care. This role serves as the central point of communication among surgeons, anesthesia providers, nursing staff, Pre-Op, PACU, and Central Sterile Processing (CSP), facilitating patient throughput and resolving operational issues in real time.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Operations & Coordination

• Coordinate daily surgical operations to promote efficient patient flow and on-time case starts.
• Serve as the primary liaison among surgeons, anesthesia, Pre-Op, PACU, CSP, vendors, and nursing staff.
• Anticipate, communicate, and address operational challenges before they impact patient care or workflow.
• Escalate significant patient care, staffing, or operational concerns to leadership as appropriate.

Resource & Inventory Management

• Oversee the availability of supplies, equipment, instruments, fluids, and specialty items required for daily operations.
• Coordinate with staff to maintain adequate inventory levels and address shortages promptly.
• Support vendor coordination for specialty procedures and implants as needed.

Instrument & Sterile Processing Oversight

• Collaborate with CSP to ensure instrument availability and timely processing of surgical trays.
• Monitor instrument turnover requirements and facilitate solutions to prevent procedural delays.
• Ensure case carts and required instrumentation are prepared for upcoming surgical schedules.

Equipment & Quality Management

• Monitor scope management processes, storage practices, and quality documentation to ensure compliance and readiness.
• Assist in maintaining department standards, regulatory requirements, and performance improvement activities.

Leadership & Team Support

• Provide leadership, guidance, and support to perioperative staff while promoting teamwork and accountability.
• Delegate responsibilities appropriately while maintaining oversight of departmental operations.
• Foster a collaborative work environment focused on patient safety, efficiency, and service excellence.
• Support staff in managing routine issues while remaining available for problem resolution and operational decision-making.

Core Expectations

• Demonstrate a "trust but verify" approach.
• Promote proactive communication and collaborative problem-solving.
• Maintain focus on patient safety, staff efficiency, operational effectiveness, and exceptional surgical services.

Guiding Principle

The Surgical Charge Nurse's primary responsibility is to ensure that the right people, resources, equipment, and information are available at the right time to support safe patient care and efficient surgical operations.