What is the role of floor in charge?

Floor In-charge Responsibilities:

A floor in charge (FIC) is responsible for the efficient and effective operation of a hospital floor, typically under the supervision of a nurse manager or other senior nursing personnel. The FIC is accountable for a wide range of tasks and responsibilities, including:

1. Patient Care:

- Overseeing the delivery of quality patient care on the assigned floor.

- Assigning nurses and support staff to patients based on acuity and needs.

- Monitoring patient conditions and ensuring prompt response to changes or emergencies.

- Performing comprehensive assessments and monitoring patient responses to treatment.

- Ensuring that patients receive medications and treatments as prescribed.

2. Communication and Coordination:

- Communicating effectively with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare team members to coordinate patient care.

- Overseeing and supporting the documentation of patient information in medical records.

- Providing updates to patients and families regarding care plans and progress.

- Collaborating with other departments and services to facilitate patient care.

3. Team Management and Supervision:

- Supervising nursing staff, unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP), and other healthcare providers on the floor.

- Providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to staff.

- Ensuring staff compliance with hospital policies, procedures, and regulations.

- Addressing staff concerns and resolving conflicts.

- Ensuring that staff maintains appropriate patient-to-staff ratios.

4. Quality and Safety:

- Monitoring and maintaining high standards of patient safety and quality of care.

- Implementing infection control measures and preventing hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).

- Conducting regular safety checks, audits, and inspections to identify potential hazards.

- Reporting incidents and near misses to the appropriate authorities.

5. Staffing and Scheduling:

- Planning and preparing staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage.

- Adjusting staffing levels based on patient census and acuity fluctuations.

- Identifying and managing staff shortages and surpluses.

6. Education:

- Providing ongoing training and education to nursing staff on new procedures, policies, and best practices.

- Ensuring staff members are competent and knowledgeable in their roles.

7. Inventory and Supplies:

- Managing and maintaining adequate supplies and equipment on the floor.

- Ordering necessary medical supplies and ensuring timely restocking.

- Preventing stockouts and waste.

8. Incident Response:

- Responding to patient emergencies and coordinating appropriate interventions.

- Managing and documenting incidents and communicating with relevant authorities.

9. Documentation and Reporting:

- Ensuring accurate and timely documentation of nursing care provided to patients.

- Compiling and submitting reports on patient care outcomes, quality indicators, and other metrics.

10. Professional Development:

- Pursuing personal professional growth and staying updated on nursing best practices.

- Attending conferences, workshops, and training to enhance knowledge and skills.

The floor in charge plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of a hospital floor, delivering quality patient care, maintaining safety standards, and supporting the professional development of nursing staff. Their expertise and dedication are vital to the overall functioning of the healthcare facility.