New Nurses in Charge Nurse Roles: A Narrative Inquiry

Abstract

The charge nurse role is a leadership position that is found on most acute care units. Due to high turnover of staff in this care setting, and recent shortages due to the COVID-19 pandemic, new nurses are assuming the charge nurse position within their first year of practice. This research study explored the experiences of new graduate nurses assigned to the charge nurse role in the acute care setting using a narrative inquiry design. The sample consisted of 10 new graduate nurses. The data revealed that the participants felt unprepared and were provided minimal training or resources when they were assigned to the charge nurse role. Over time and through experience, the participants experienced professional growth and a deepened understanding of their preferences towards leadership. The findings of this study can be used to inform the development of resources, training opportunities, and practice changes that aim to better support new nurses assigned to this position.