Charge Nurse

California Pain; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

California Pain is seeking a Charge Nurse (RN) to lead clinical operations at the Pain Management ASC in San Diego, ensuring safe, efficient patient care across pre-op, intra-op, and PACU while mentoring staff.

Active CA RN license, 2–3 years in pain management or perioperative nursing, BLS/ACLS; PALS preferred. Strong leadership, communication, and EMR proficiency are essential to success.

Qualifications

• Current and unrestricted RN license in the state of employment.
• 2–3 years of RN experience in pain management, perioperative nursing, PACU, or related specialty.
• BLS and ACLS certifications required; PALS preferred (if applicable).

Responsibilities

• Oversees daily clinical workflow and staffing across Pre-Op, Procedure Rooms, and PACU.
• Provides clinical guidance to nursing staff and collaborates with physicians and anesthesia providers.
• Ensures adherence to ASC policies and regulatory standards.

Skills

RN license

Leadership

Clinical coordination

Communication

EMR proficiency

Education

RN license in California

BSN preferred

Tools

EMR systems

Job description

Job Description – Charge Nurse (RN)

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.

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

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.