As we enter another flu season, WSNA is committed to advocating for the health of nurses and the patients that we serve. Because of this commitment, and consistent with interim CDC recommendations, we strongly recommend that nurses and all other health care providers who provide direct patient care be vaccinated this fall.
However, a voluntary vaccination program is only one component of a comprehensive influenza prevention policy that must include hierarchy of controls such as screening visitors and employees, having appropriate and adequate supply of personal protective equipment, patient and employee education programs and supportive workplace infection control practices and policies. If you have reasons for not having the flu vaccine, sign the declination letter. You do not have to provide them with a reason.
WSNA sent a letter to the CEOs and CNOs of all the WSNA represented hospitals (including Central Washington Hospital) urging them to adopt an approach that adheres to the comprehensive, proven, and reliable flu prevention protocol recommended by the CDC and offered to partner with the hospitals to achieve optimal levels of health and safety for both patients and nurses.
We believe that masking policies must follow CDC guidelines for all workers, not just those unvaccinated (currently required when within 6 feet of patients) and not be used as a retaliation or punishment for unvaccinated workers. WSNA has opposed policies of employers who require unvaccinated nurses to wear a mask at all times and clearly communicated our position through a variety of methods. The National Labor Relations Board is currently deliberating on our case against Virginia Mason Hospital with regards to their masking policy.
We need you to be vigilant as to whether Central Washington Hospital is practicing or providing proper support to adhere to a comprehensive program. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact:
Carmen Garrison WSNA Nurse Rep
1-800-231-8482 ext 3113
cgarrison@wsna.org
