The ABC of committee work. 1: Officers, members and their duties

Many nurses will be asked during their career to serve on a committee but will have little concept of the work and procedures involved. This article, the first of two parts, describes the work of the officers and members of a committee. The chairperson controls meetings according to rules which make for the smooth and equitable running of the committee. The secretary, who has to work closely with the chairperson, is often more experienced regarding the rules and can do valuable work in guiding the chairperson. Normally, the secretary's job includes duties before, during and after meetings. A treasurer looks after the financial affairs of any committee which holds a budget. The vice-chairperson is the natural successor of the chairperson and should be groomed to take the chair.