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A few weeks ago, the U.S. Census Bureau announced that the 2020 Census will end early on Sept. 30, which will result in an incomplete and inaccurate count of people. We cannot let that happen.
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Advocacy and policy and Union
WSNA statement on immigrant sterilizations taking place at Georgia detention center under ICE
Like so many others, we are horrified by recent claims of immigrant sterilizations taking place at a Georgia detention center under the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Health care unions statement on COVID-19 outbreak at St. Michael Hospital
The leaders of WSNA and SEIU Healthcare 1199NW today called on state officials to address the serious shortcomings in oversight and transparency that we believe contributed to the severe outbreak of COVID-19 among staff and patients at St. Michael Hospital in Bremerton.
Governor updates vulnerable worker protections
On July 29, Governor Jay Inslee updated the proclamation that provides protections for vulnerable workers in Washington state and extended it through the duration of the current state of emergency.
Victory at Providence Sacred Heart
Coming weeks before the coronavirus hit the U.S., our victory at Providence showcased the power of nurses standing strong together and built a strong foundation to address the issues we now face and will face in the future.The solidarity we built during these victories is a reminder that together we are stronger.
Nurses campaigning in a time of coronavirus
In this election year, the pandemic has made one thing crystal clear: nurses are vitally important to the health of our communities. We need nurses — in our hospitals, in our long-term care facilities, in our schools and in our state legislature.
Confronting COVID-19: Nurses on the front lines
Nurses across the state have stepped up and cared for COVID-19 patients under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. From the first chaotic days when guidance and protocols seemed to change on a daily basis, through extreme shortages of PPE and a lack of testing, you have served, and you have cared.
ANA, AFT pass resolutions on racial justice
The American Nurses Association and the American Federation of Teachers both passed resolutions last week calling for racial justice and action to combat racism.
WSNA renews call for re-opening of inpatient psychiatric ward at UW Medical Center
Now is no time to make it harder for those in psychiatric distress to get the care they need, or to disrupt the lives of the nurses who dedicate themselves to serving these patients.
WSNA statement calling for an end to systemic racism, racial violence and police brutality
WSNA stands in solidarity with all those who are calling for an end to systemic racism, racial violence and police brutality. We also are calling on our profession to look hard at the many ways racism manifests itself in our health care system and in patient care. We must do better.
WSNA calls for reopening of UWMC inpatient psych unit
The University of Washington Medical Center has shut down the in-patient psychiatric unit, without committing to a timeline to reopen it. At a time when the coronavirus pandemic is raising concerns about the psychological well-being of so many of our residents, the UW is denying needed care by shutting down this unit.
WSNA statement on Governor’s proclamation reopening non-urgent medical and dental procedures
"WSNA is pleased to see the thoughtful, collaborative, data-driven proclamation on the safe restart of health care surgeries and procedures issued by Governor Jay Inslee today," said Sally Watkins, WSNA executive director.
Coalition of UW employees holds Unity Break for staff safety
This afternoon, a coalition of UW employees held a Unity Break to show the UW that workers stand strong and united against the UW’s lack of commitment to the safety of their staff.
Recognizing YOU during National Nurses Month
Today, we face an unprecedented crisis as the COVID-19 pandemic tests every part of our society and culture. Nurses like you have risen to the moment. Now more than ever it’s easy to see just how much of a difference nurses make.
Governor Jay Inslee proclaims May as Nurses Month in Washington state
Thank you, Governor Jay Inslee for recognizing May 2020 as Nurse Month."I encourage all people in our state to join me in honoring the nurses of Washington, especially recognizing the critical and live-saving role that registered nurses have filled around our state, country, and world through the current coronavirus pandemic.
Major win to prohibit use of carcinogen for PPE sterilization
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries today issued a Hazard Alert prohibiting the use of ethylene oxide for cleaning of face masks, including N95s. This alert is a result of WSNA’s efforts to raise the alarms and advocate for the safety of our members.
A message from WSNA President Lynnette Vehrs
"Know that WSNA is fighting for your safety and your needs through the coronavirus pandemic—with federal and state partners, public health, and employers," says WSNA President Lynnette Vehrs.
WSNA calls for PPE solution before elective procedures restart
As hospitals nationwide develop plans to reopen elective surgeries and other procedures suspended during the COVID-19 crisis, it is essential to resolve the problem of inadequate Personal Protective Equipment first.
Gov. Inslee issues memo on workers compensation and proclamation on high-risk workers
On April 10, Gov. Inslee sent a memorandum clarifying how L&I should handle workers compensation claims for COVID-19. On April 13, he issued a proclamation protecting high-risk employees.
Unions demand hazard pay for health care workers
Frontline health care workers are putting their lives on the line to save the lives of others. In view of these extraordinary circumstances, WSNA, SEIU Healthcare 1199NW and UFCW 21 issued a joint statement demanding hazard pay for health care workers as they face this pandemic.
Now is the time to speak up, because #SilenceKills
"As nurses and health care providers, we should not be expected to face this pandemic without PPE," says Adam Halvorsen, a registered nurse in Washington state and WSNA board member. "Now is the time to speak up, because #SilenceKills."
WSNA demands transparency in COVID-19 response
Nurses, health care workers, and first responders need the right tools to defeat this pandemic—including accurate, transparent information about PPE and testing as well as clear direction on appropriate leave when sick and accommodation for vulnerable workers.
COVID-19 Healthy Workplace Survey
WSNA needs more detail about what registered nurses are facing daily on their units and in their facility during this COVID-19 crisis.
WSNA statement on firing of Dr. Ming Lin and silencing of nurses and doctors
As the union representing 900 nurses at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham, WSNA is appalled by the hospital administration’s response to the very real concerns being raised by frontline caregivers at the hospital.