OR Nurses and Intermittent Charge
Posted on 3.10.08

The use of intermittent charge nurses vs. consistent nurse in charge positions is a major problem for the OR Nursing staff. The OR Nursing Administration has chosen not to post and fill, according to the contract, nurse in charge positions.

In an effort to influence this practice and bring about a positive outcome, the MNA is requesting that all OR nursing staff refrain from volunteering for the intermittent charge nurse role. We agree with the vast majority of OR nurses that consistent nurses in charge provide stability, continuity and professional support for the staff nurses. There are no “intermittent” measures that can substitute for nurse in charge positions.

By not volunteering for the intermittent charge nurse role you support not only your fellow staff nurses but the provisions of the contract that speak to fairness and equity in filling nursing positions.