Professional accountability and legal liability for the team leader and charge nurse.

The rapid evolution in health care systems has significantly altered the roles and responsibilities of team leaders and charge nurses. Charge nurses and team leaders are responsible for promoting safe and effective patient care and maintaining high clinical standards in all settings. The Nursing Practice Act, state board of nursing administrative rules and regulations, and resources from professional organizations guide team leaders and charge nurses in these functions. Case law in recent medical malpractice actions also has affirmed the central role that team leaders and charge nurses play in preventing negative patient outcomes. The professional accountability and legal liability of team leaders and charge nurses in perinatal settings are examined. Effective strategies for reducing legal risk also are presented.