An ICU In-Charge (often called a Charge Nurse or Head Nurse) manages daily unit operations, coordinates patient care teams, and ensures clinical safety. Key duties include staff assignment, resource allocation, and quality control.
Clinical & Patient Care Oversight
- Oversee patient assessments and monitor critical care delivery.
- Ensure adherence to evidence-based ICU protocols and safety standards.
- Assist multidisciplinary teams during medical emergencies.
- Manage critical drug inventories, restricted medications, and sterile supplies.
Administrative & Staff Management
- Create shift duty rosters and maintain secure nurse-to-patient staffing ratios.
- Supervise nurse performance, mentor junior staff, and coordinate training.
- Resolve conflicts and facilitate clear communication between shifts.
Equipment & Safety Control
- Verify that life-support systems (ventilators, monitors) are calibrated and operational.
- Report malfunctioning devices immediately to biomedical engineering.
- Enforce infection control policies and report untoward safety incidents.