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Summary:
Charge nurses set the tone for the entire department, especially when leaders are not in the room.
In this episode, Dr. Renee Thompson discusses a common challenge healthcare leaders face: charge nurses who are clinically strong but struggle with professionalism, communication, and respect. Drawing on the Healthy Workforce Institute’s Department Culture Change initiative, which has worked with more than 135 departments, Renee shares that every department assessed had some concern involving charge nurses. She explains why leaders often avoid difficult conversations and outlines three practical strategies: having honest conversations, providing training focused on the “people” side of leadership, and removing charge nurses from the role when harmful behavior continues. Renee also reflects on Tim Gunn’s lessons on professionalism, kindness, curiosity, integrity, and consistent daily habits, which are valuable reminders for charge nurses and healthcare leaders alike.
Tune in to learn how healthcare leaders can hold charge nurses accountable, strengthen professionalism, and create a healthier work culture for every team member.
About Dr. Renee Thompson:
Dr. Renee Thompson is a leading authority on creating healthy work cultures by eliminating bullying and incivility in healthcare. With more than 31 years of experience as a clinical nurse, educator, quality manager, and executive leader, she has become one of the most sought-after experts on workplace culture. As CEO and Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute, Renee works with healthcare organizations worldwide to equip leaders with the tools they need to cultivate professional, respectful, and supportive teams.
Renee is a published author, award-winning speaker, and one of only 30 nurses worldwide to earn the Certified Speaking Professional designation. She also serves on The Joint Commission’s Workplace Violence Technical Advisory Panel and has been recognized globally for her thought leadership and advocacy.
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