New to Charge Nurse, any advice?

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Hey guys,

I just took the job as full time charge for my ER, we actually have a couple and we rotate out. I was just wanting to see if anybody had any advice, tips, tricks, etc.

Thanks

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Dont do anything to any of your reports that you would not want to have done to you ;)

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Specializes in Trauma/ED.

Don't make too many waves at first. I try to give as much praise as i do criticism and I enjoy my job which makes it a lot more fun. I try to have fun with the staff, EMS, and management every day.

We have a new charge on NOC's that the staff has had a hard time with because she tends to look over everyone's charting, print it and highlight it and send it to the manager--sometimes without even talking to the staff person. This has not made her very many friends.

Just be fair and motivate with a positive attitude and you'll be great. I remember when i started doing full-time charge i had bad dreams and couldn't sleep very well because of the added stress--I adjusted fairly quickly and it has been a good fit for me.

Another good trick is I always keep my drawer stocked with gum and my locker stocked with APAP and Motrin!

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Specializes in ER.

Start drinking now and avoid the rush.

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