Washington nurses call for more protective gear before restarting elective surgeries

SPOKANE, Wash. — Washington nurses are calling for more personal protective equipment (PPE) ahead of Gov. Jay Inslee's plan to allow elective surgeries to restart in the state.

Inslee said this that elective medical procedures, outdoor recreation and some construction are likely to be among the first industries to return to business, with new safety and health measures in place.

The Washington State Nurses Association writes that 89% of nurses represented by the union in 75% of the largest represented hospital and facilities are delivering care without sufficient PPE.