A facility must designate a charge nurse for which of the following?

Designating a charge nurse for all shifts in a facility is essential for ensuring consistent leadership, supervision, and coordination of care. Charge nurses play a critical role in overseeing staff, managing patient care, and facilitating communication among the healthcare team.

Having a charge nurse present during all three shifts—day, night, and weekends—helps maintain a standard of care and assists in the continuity of operations regardless of the time of day. This practice allows for immediate decision-making and problem-solving, contributing to improved patient outcomes and staff support.

In contrast, designating charge nurses only for specific shifts could lead to gaps in supervision or inconsistent management across the facility, which may adversely affect both staff and patient care. Therefore, the choice to have a charge nurse for all shifts supports a cohesive and well-functioning healthcare environment.