What is a key responsibility of the Charge Nurse concerning medication?

The key responsibility of the Charge Nurse concerning medication is training staff on medication protocols. This role is vital in ensuring that all staff members are well-informed about the correct procedures for administering medications, understanding dosages, side effects, and the importance of adhering to safety protocols. The Charge Nurse serves as an educator and a resource for the nursing team, helping to promote best practices and maintain compliance with regulations and standards regarding medication management.

This responsibility also involves providing updates on any changes in medication administration policies or new medications that may be introduced. By effectively training staff, the Charge Nurse helps minimize the risk of medication errors and promotes safe patient care, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for residents.

In contrast, diagnosing patients pertains to a medical responsibility typically held by physicians or advanced practice nurses, which is not within the Charge Nurse's scope. Directly managing pharmacy inventory is primarily the role of pharmacy staff or a designated medication technician, while performing physical exams is a function that usually falls to nurses with specific training or qualifications in assessment. The Charge Nurse’s focus is on overseeing clinical practices and ensuring that protocols regarding medication are followed accurately by the team.