Northwest Hospital & Medical Center

WSNA is aware that the University of Washington Medical Center and Northwest Hospital Medical Center are planning to integrate beginning January 2019 and operate as a single hospital with two campuses.

This integration is pending final approval of the NWH Board of Trustees, the UWMC Committee of the Board and ultimately the UW Board of Regents. We also know that RNs at UWMC and NWHMC have a lot of questions about how this integration will affect their hospitals, their communities and their jobs.

Currently, WSNA represents RNs at both facilities. We are actively engaged in obtaining information from UWMC and NWHMC. We have been notified by management that both facilities plan to proceed in a transparent fashion and work with us to address and resolve the many issues this integration will pose.

We will update you as we learn more and encourage your questions and input.

Please contact your WSNA nurse representative and/or local unit officers with your questions or concerns.

Sincerely,
Sue O'Donnell, MSN, RN
WSNA Nurse Representative

There are two recent issues that have been brought to the attention of WSNA and the RNs we represent at Northwest Hospital. These are:

• Northwest Hospital recently announced lay-offs. We have been assured by Northwest Hospital Administration that these layoffs do not affect RNs represented by WSNA. Nurses are asking if RN layoffs are also being considered. During the Conference Committee meeting this week (6/28/2017), Management informed us they are committed to keeping RNs and to filling vacant RN positons.
• Discussions re: possible NWH and UW Integration
  WSNA is aware that Northwest Hospital and University of Washington Medical Center management are planning to consider further integration between UWMC and NWH. In light of the current situation at Northwest, with recent layoffs of non-RN staff, we understand nurses have questions and concerns about how this integration might affect RNs. It is important that nurses know that this is still in the assessment phase with a lot of unknowns. It is too soon to tell what/if any changes might result. It will take time for UWMC/NWH to make their assessment. Any changes that might result would also take time to initiate. For now, be assured that WSNA staff and leadership are aware of the situation and will stay on top of it. We will continue to fully represent NWH RNs and stay engaged with you as this issue develops. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Sue O’Donnell, NWH WSNA Nurse Representative at 206-575-7979 ext. 3045 or sodonnell@wsna.org.

Recently elections were held for Local Unit Officer positions.

Congratulations to the following RNs who have been elected to serve a term of office!

Chair
Tiffany Guyette
Float Pool (Night Shift)
tiffanyguyette@gmail.com
541-654-1739

Co-Chair
Rachael Kelly
Emergency Room (Night Shift)
rachelhouse@gmail.com

Secretary/Treasurer
Aimee Coture
Medical 5th Floor (Day Shift)
coutureaimee@gmail.com

Grievance Officers
Allison Beaman
Emergency Room (Per Diem)
allison.beaman@gmail.com

Rebecca Hull
Child Birth Center (Day Shift)
rhullcorrell@gmail.com

WSNA has contacted Hospital Administration regarding the “Talking Points to Staff on Falls Elimination” form that nurses have received. The Hospital will continue the education regarding falls and we will continue to work with Management on this important patient safety issue. The Hospital has agreed that it is NOT mandatory for Registered Nurses to sign this form.

In Solidarity!

Tiffany Guyette, Allison Beaman; Aimee Couture, Tom Booze, Rebecca Hull
And Terri Williams, MS, RN, WSNA Nurse Rep / twilliams@wsna.org.

Please watch your mail - Your Local Unit Officer Election Ballot is on its way!

Only one person was nominated for each of the following positions:

Chairperson, Secretary/Treasurer, and the two Co-Grievance Officer positions.
There were no nominations for Co/Vice Chairperson.

Even though the elections are uncontested, it is still imperative that you take the time to VOTE for the nurses who have agreed to run for and hold these positions.

Please mark your ballot and make sure it is postmarked by April 12, 2017.

You won’t receive a ballot if you are not an active member. Only active members are eligible to vote.
If you are not sure of your membership status, please contact membership at membership@wsna.org.
Now is a great time to become active in WSNA!

Questions? Contact Sue O’Donnell, WSNA Nurse Representative; 206-575-7979, ext.3045, or sodonnell@wsna.org

Don't miss the upcoming Washington State Nurses Convention May 3-5! At Convention, we’ll be diving deep into one the top issues for registered nurses today: Creating a Culture of Safety. Register today for early bird pricing and hotel discounts (through March 30). Some local units are sponsoring attendance at Convention. Check with your local unit officers.

ATTENTION Northwest WSNA RNs – Get Updated and Involved!

Join us for Drop - In Local Unit Meetings on Thursday, March 9, 2017

Meetings will be held Thursday, March 9th at Northwest Hospital in the Cancer Care Conference room in the Medical Office Building

6:30 am – 9:00 am – Fruit/Muffins
and
11:00 am – 2:00 pm – Pizza

Agenda:

• Discussion of Local Unit Officer Roles and Responsibilities.
• Opportunity to nominate candidates for office during this meeting.
• Update Unit Representatives and Members on current and upcoming issues.

Nominees must be WSNA members in good standing.

In Solidarity: Cathy Powers RN , Local Unit Chair; Cathy Sanders RN , Grievance Officer; Tom Booze RN, Secretary/Treasurer

Questions? Please contact Sue O’Donnell, WSNA Nurse Representative @ 206-575-7979, ext. 3045 or sodonnell@wsna.org.

Changes to medical benefits delayed….Northwest Hospital will make changes to RN insurance plans in June 2017 instead of April 2017.

During contract negotiations, WSNA and Northwest management agreed that changes to the cost of medical benefits would go into effect in April 2017. Since then, Northwest has requested additional time to make this transition and WSNA has agreed to extend the effective target date for medical plan changes to June 2017. As a result, current plans will remain in effect and nurses will not pay additional costs until the new plans go into effect.

In the meantime, Northwest management will be in contact with RNs regarding open enrollment. Nurses will receive information and be able to make changes to their medical plan benefit during open enrollment.

If you have questions about why WSNA agreed to the delay, please contact Sue O’Donnell, WSNA Nurse Representative.

If you have questions about your medical benefits, please contact your NWH Human Resource Department.

Here is a link to the medical benefits cost summary. This summary has the original date which goes in effect April 2017. Again, the revised target date for changing to these plans is June 2017.

The vote is in and Northwest Nurses have overwhelmingly approved the Contract!

Thank you all!

In Solidarity,

Your WSNA Negotiating Team

Your Negotiating Team recommends a “YES” vote on this contract.

Contract Summary

Entire Contract

Wage Scale

Voting Dates/Times/Locations:

Wednesday 2/8/2017
Wed. 6 – 9 am – MAB 112 – (Medical Arts Building - right across walkway from hospital)
Wed. 2 – 4 pm – CPU Conference Room – (Cardiac Procedure Unit, enter off main lobby by ER)
Wed. 6 – 9 pm – CPU Conference Room
Thursday 2/9/2017
Thurs. 6 – 9 am – CPU Conference Room
Thurs. 6 – 9 pm – CPU Conference Room

It is crucial that all RNs vote on the proposed contract – Make your plans now to vote

Wednesday 2/8/2017
Wed. 6 – 9 am – MAB 112 – (Medical Arts Building - right across walkway from hospital)
Wed. 2 – 4 pm – CPU Conference Room – (Cardiac Procedure Unit, enter off main lobby by ER)
Wed. 6 – 9 pm – CPU Conference Room

Thursday 2/9/2017
Thurs. 6 – 9 am – CPU Conference Room
Thurs. 6 – 9 pm – CPU Conference Room

Members of the Negotiating Team will be available to answer any outstanding questions you have about the proposed contract. Please contact members of the Negotiating Team or your Nurse Representative if you have questions. Plan to vote and please carefully consider that YOUR Negotiating Team and the impartial Federal Mediator recommend a “YES” vote on this contract.

In solidarity: Your Negotiating Team: Cathy Powers, RN, Local Unit Chair; Cathy Sanders, RN, Local Unit Grievance Officer; Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer; Judy Brown, RN; Sheri Devos, RN; Mary McNaughton, RN Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative, 206-575-7979, ext. 3045 / sodonnell@wsna.org

Yesterday, on January 24th, your fellow nurses on your WSNA negotiating team bargained with Northwest Hospital with the assistance of a Federal Mediator, who has experience in mediating health care collective bargaining disputes, especially nursing contracts. We brought the mediator up to speed as to the bargaining history and the issues that were of concern to the bargaining unit that led to the “no” vote on the previously proposed contract. Yesterday, WSNA proposed additional enhancements to the contract beyond the enhancements that were previously agreed to by the parties. We proposed an additional wage increase in the first year for all nurses, enhanced retroactive pay and lower premiums for health insurance, as these were areas of continued concern identified by some nurses in the bargaining unit.

The Hospital did not propose to reduce its offer, as it was entitled to do, but indicated that because of sustained income losses over a period of time, it was not in a position to increase its offer. During the course of the day, we were able to secure an agreement from the Hospital that it would pay the wage increases specified in the agreement retroactive to the date on which the previous contract was rejected (December 9, 2016). In doing so, nurses will not have suffered any loss of wage increases for the period since December 9, 2016. The other terms of the contract remain the same as proposed before. The Hospital indicated that if bargaining continued indefinitely that it may have to reconsider whether it would be able to maintain its current offer.

The Federal Mediator, based on her experience with contract disputes between hospitals and their unions in Seattle and throughout Washington and based on her knowledge of the settlements of other nursing contracts, took the unusual step of recommending that the modified settlement be ratified by WSNA.

We believe that it is in best interest of all of the nurses at Northwest to ratify the newly-modified settlement so that we can secure all of the significant gains that were made through difficult collective bargaining. We ask you to reflect on the significant improvements that were made in many areas of the contract and on the risks of going without a contract even longer. We will continue to work to improve the work life at Northwest Hospital with the help of many passionate nurses who have come forward over the past couple of months.

We are in the process of working out the logistics for the bargaining unit nurses to vote on the modified settlement. We will have that information for you shortly.

In Solidarity: Your Fellow Nurses on Your WSNA Bargaining Team

Northwest RNs met with their WSNA Negotiating Team members and WSNA leadership and staff on Thursday, January 19 to address the status of contract negotiations at Northwest Hospital. The team is making plans to return to the negotiating table with management and a mediator on Tuesday, January 24th and the meeting gave us a chance to touch base with the nurses at Northwest. Thanks to all the nurses who were able to get to the meeting.

During the meeting, WSNA distributed information and updates (click to access). We are emailing these to you because not all nurses were able to attend the 1/19 meeting. These handouts and the referenced “Medical Benefits Rates History 2008-2017 (Appendix A)” are available. Please take a look through the information and let me know if you have any questions, concerns, or comments.

Remember to wear your WSNA TEAM buttons to show your SOLIDARITY. Our Negotiating Team is scheduled to meet for a negotiation session with management and a mediator on Tuesday, January 24. We will be back in touch with Northwest Nurses following that meeting.

We will be back in touch with Northwest Nurses with updated information following our meeting on Tuesday, January 24th. Thanks you.

In solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, Local Unit Chair; Cathy Sanders, RN, Local Unit Grievance Officer; Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer; Judy Brown, RN; Sheri Devos, RN; Mary McNaughton, RN;
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative, 206-575-7979, ext. 3045 / sodonnell@wsna.org

Drop-in style Q&A meeting with our Negotiating Team Thursday 01-19-2017 2-7 pm Cancer Care Conference Room - Ground Level - Medical Office Building - 1560 N 115th St, Seattle

Our Negotiating Team will be holding a drop-in style informational session before we return to the bargaining table to both give updated information and work to answer the outstanding questions we have.

Following the “NO” vote, we heard from RNs around the hospital, and in response, this meeting is designed to clarify questions and concerns about the previously negotiated contract and talk about what to expect next as we return to the table.

Mediation Session is scheduled for: Tuesday, January 24th

EVERY RN needs to stop in to continue the conversation and provide guidance to our team so we can move forward in the process of securing the best contract possible for everyone.

Children are welcome if necessary to encourage ALL RNs to participate!

In attendance to work with us will be members of our Negotiation Team, WSNA Asst. Exec. Dir. Of Labor Relations Christine Himmelsbach MN, RN, WSNA Chief Negotiator Michael Sanderson, and our WSNA Nurse Representative Sue O’Donnell RN.

For questions or concerns, please contact Sue O’Donnell, WSNA Nurse Representative 206-575-7979 ext. 3045 or sodonnell@wsna.org.

If you feel your ability to provide safe patient care is being compromised because of short staffing, equipment issues, missed breaks, etc., you should fill out a WSNA Assignment Despite Objection Form, AKA “ADO”.

Take a minute now and look through this important information.

Nurses are responsible for following the chain of command when they encounter a practice situation that may compromise patient safety. Usually the chain begins with the charge nurse. Ideally the charge nurse will be able to provide a “fix” to the situation, or at least some degree of resolution/relief.

If the staff nurse believes the charge nurse is following the chain of command in trying to resolve the problem, including notifying the nurse supervisor or manager as appropriate, the nurse should not have to go over the charge nurse’s head. However, if the nurse believes the charge nurse is not adequately addressing the issue the nurse may feel professionally compelled to take the issue up the chain of command themselves.

A helpful decision - making resource can be found by following the link to WSNA’s information about Accepting Assignments and Delegation, along with access to an online class that includes options for free CEUs.

If there is no adequate in-time “fix” to the situation, the nurse should fill out an ADO form. ADOs document that a nurse tried to address a safety issue and provide some protections to the nurse in case an adverse outcome occurs related to the issue.

Clinical Coordinators at Northwest are not members of the bargaining unit. They are members of management. They will not fill out an ADO.

ADOs are addressed in Nurse Conference Committee meetings. Each ADO is addressed individually and ADOs can also help identify common issues/trends. An example of a trend could be consistent short staffing on weekends.

Nurses should fill out the ADO as soon as possible. It is not necessary to fill it out during or after the shift – but nurses should fill it out as soon they are able.

Instructions: Make 3 copies of the ADO. Give one copy to your manager, one to a WSNA Officer – Cathy Powers, Chair, Tom Booze, Secretary/Treasurer, or Cathy Sander, Grievance Officer. You can also leave the copy in Cathy Power’s mailbox on PSA. Or, you can fax a copy of the ADO to Sue O’Donnell, Nurse Representative, at 206-575-1908.

Questions? Contact Sue O’Donnell, WSNA Nurse Representative at 206-575-7979, ext. 3045 or sodonnell@wsna.org

Tentatively Scheduled for 01/19/2017 from 2-7 pm

Your Negotiating Team will be holding an open meeting with nurses before we return to the bargaining table. We are tentatively scheduling this drop in meeting for January 19th, 2017 from 2-7pm. We will update you with more details once we have the meeting confirmed.

In solidarity,
Sue O’Donnell for Your Negotiating Team
WSNA Nurse Representative
206-675-7979 ext. 3045

Thank you ALL for your input and your patience over the holidays!

WSNA and Northwest Hospital will be going back to the Bargaining Table.

Your WSNA Negotiating Team will meet with Management’s Negotiating Team and a Federal Mediator when we re-enter Contract Negotiations.

Plans are being made to schedule negotiation sessions. We will let you how know how you can be involved and stay informed as plans progress.

Thank you again for your patience over the holidays. We are looking forward to a Happy New Year and a Contract in 2017!

Thank you for participating in meetings and the survey. We are hearing you and your input continues to be very valuable.

We are carefully considering all feedback you have given us to date, and ask that you continue over this next week. Talk with your team members or your Nurse Representative Sue O'Donnell at 206-575-7979, ext. 3045 if you have questions or additional information to convey to us.

We will be coordinating schedules and carefully considering all feedback over the holiday week while we plan for the next steps.

We will have a plan to communicate with you after January 3rd.

Questions - contact Sue O'Donnell at sodonnell@wsna.org

Please take a minute to complete this survey regarding the "No" ratification vote. It’s important that we get everyone’s feedback.

The survey closes tomorrow at 9pm so don't delay!

Please stay tuned for updates and like our Facebook page! Thank you.

In solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, Local Unit Chair; Cathy Sanders, RN, Local Unit Grievance Officer; Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer; Judy Brown, RN; Sheri Devos, RN; Mary McNaughton, RN;
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative, 206-575-7979, ext. 3045.

We want to say “THANK YOU!” to all the nurses who came and talked with us at this weeks’ meetings. If you were unable to attend the meetings, we still want to hear your voice. Please take a minute to complete this survey. We are making decisions on how to proceed based on your feedback.

Please “stay tuned” for updates and contact WSNA if you have any questions. Thank you.

In Solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team

Your WSNA Negotiating Team is holding Local Unit Meetings to talk about next steps and hear your thoughts and concerns.

Dates: Wednesday and Thursday, December 14 and 15, 2016
Times: 7:30 am to 6:30 pm – Drop In
Place: Northwest Hospital
CHESC (Simulation Center) Learning Center between Easy Street and new MSE unit (formerly Rehab)

Your voice matters. Please plan to attend. If you have questions, please contact Sue O’Donnell, Nurse Representative at 206-575-7979, ext. 3045.
Like our Facebook page for updates on meeting times, negotiations and other local unit news.

In solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, Local Unit Chair; Cathy Sanders, RN, Local Unit Grievance Officer; Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer; Judy Brown, RN; Sheri Devos, RN; Mary McNaughton, RN;
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative, 206-575-7979, ext. 3045.

We have heard your voices. The contract was narrowly rejected by NWH RNs.
Please stay tuned for information regarding our next steps.

In solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team

Electronic voting open from Dec. 7th, 6:00 AM - Dec. 9th, 6:00 AM

You will receive an official election postcard at the mailing address you have on file with WSNA by Dec. 5. The postcard will have a “scratch off” region containing your unique Access Code. You will need your unique Access Code to vote, whether you vote online, by phone, or at the in person vote. (Tip: take a picture of your code on your cell phone.)

You can only vote once. Your vote must be cast before Dec 9, 6:00 AM PST. You must be a member in good standing to vote. To check on your membership status or apply for membership, please contact our Membership department: membership@wsna.org or 206-575-7979.

Proposed Contract
Wage Scale
Medical Benefits Changes
Additional Medical Benefits Info

In Person Voting — This is your opportunity to meet with Negotiation Team members, review hardcopies of the proposed contract, and vote in person.
Dec 7, 2016 6:00 AM - 8:30 AM Rehab Conference Room
Dec 7, 2016 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Diabetes Classroom

Online Voting — Anytime between Dec 7, 6 AM PST and Dec 9, 6 AM PST: (1) Browse to https://BallotPoint.com/WSNA; (2) click “Click to Log In”; (3) enter your unique Access Code; and (4) make your selection and cast your ballot.

Phone Voting — Anytime between Dec 7, 6 AM PST and Dec 9, 6 AM PST: (1) Dial 1.800.632.0016; (2) enter your unique Access Code; and (3) follow the prompts to cast your vote.

Have questions about how to vote? Haven’t received your postcard by December 5th? Lost your Access Code? Please contact Sydne James, 206-575-7979 x3004, SJames@wsna.org, by 5:00 PM on Thursday, December 8th.

Voting on your contract will be done electronically. For this contract ratification vote, you will either vote by phone or online - your choice! We believe electronic voting will make it easier for nurses to vote.

You must be a member in good standing to vote. To check on your membership standing, or to update your mailing address or email address, please contact our Membership Department at membership@wsna.org or by phone at 206-575-7979, or complete a Change of Information Form and fax to 206-838-3099. You can only vote once.

Process:

1. A few days prior to the vote, you will receive a postcard at the mailing address you have on file with WSNA from Ballotpoint Election Services.
2. The postcard will have a “scratch off” region containing your unique voter PIN number under it. Scratch it off to reveal your number. You will need that number to vote online or by phone.
3. The postcard will also contain specific instructions on how to vote. It will include both the phone number to call in your vote and the website address to access the online vote. Voting will be available for 48 hours. The vote dates will be determined soon. More information will be mailed and emailed to you once the dates are confirmed.
4. Voting in person will also be held while the vote is open with times and date TBD. Members of your WSNA Negotiating Team will be available with copies of the redline contract. Tablets will be available for you to vote on, or you may call in your vote, or use your smartphone’s web browser.

Review your Proposed Contract and New Wage Scale.

The November 10, 2016, contract highlight summary contained a bullet stating:

Bonus Shifts - Now paid for nurses working beyond their normal FTE – removing requirement that nurses work 48 hours in a single week to be eligible for bonus shifts.

There are no “Bonus Shifts” at NWH. There are only “Incentive Shifts” in the contract. As mentioned in the previous summary, we were able to remove the requirement that nurses work 48 hours in a single week to be eligible for incentive shifts. The summary posted on November 10, 2016 (see below), has been corrected to reflect this clarification. We apologize for any confusion.

In Solidarity
Sue O’Donnell WSNA Nurse Representative 206-575-7979, ext. 3045

On Tuesday evening November 7th at 10:50 PM, after a long day of negotiating, your Negotiating Team reached a Tentative Agreement with Northwest Hospital's Management over the terms of our collective bargaining agreement.

All Northwest RNs who are WSNA members in good standing are eligible to vote on the contract. Nurses will have the opportunity to meet with members of the Negotiating Team and review the entire proposed contract/tentative agreement prior to voting. We do not have dates for meetings and voting yet. We will be providing you with more information on those very soon.

We think you will agree that we have reached a good, fair contract and we are recommending that Northwest RNs ratify the contract with a “YES” vote.

Here are some highlights of the Tentative Agreement:

Additional STEPS for the life of the contract. Under the old contract, nurses could wait as long as 5 years for a STEP increase. By 2018, the longest interval between STEPS will be 2 years.

WAGES

1st Year Wage Increases. Following ratification of contract – May 2017

Add STEPS 22, 24, 26, 28, 29 and 30
STEPS 1 - 19 4% increase
STEPS 20 – 30 2.5% increase

NOTE: The addition of STEPs will bring many, but not all nurses at STEPs 20 – 30 to a 4% increase over their current wage. Nurses whose STEP level adjustment does NOT result in a 4% increase will receive a one-time payment equaling the difference between their 2.5% STEP increase and 4%, prorated for their FTE.

2nd Year - May 15, 2017

Add STEPS 11, 14, 17
3.0% Across the Board Increase

3rd Year - May 15, 2018

3.0% Across the Board Increase

Ratification Bonus - RNs employed as of 5/15/2016 through approximately 2 pay periods beyond ratification $700.00 for 1.0 FTE and is prorated by FTE. Reserve Nurses (0.2 FTE) will receive $140.00.

BSN or MSN Premium - Effective 7/2017 $1.00/hr for RNs with a BSN or MSN degree.

Shift Differentials - Effective 5/15/2017 Nurses will receive a shift differential for second shift (3p-11p) or third shift (11p-7a) if 2 (instead of current 4) or more hours are worked on the designated shift.

Temporary Floating Premium - Effective at ratification - RNs floating from the unit(s) they were hired into will receive $1.50/hr premium (Does not apply to float pool nurses).

Medical Benefits – Existing plan to 4/2017. Nurses will re-select a plan prior to April 2017. Your choices include a PPO and a consumer driven/high deductible plan. Your negotiating team believes the costs of these plans are a fair value to nurses and their families. The plan results in some increased costs to some RNs, and provides some offsets to costs by participating in wellness plans and health savings accounts. Contract language will require the employer to work with WSNA before making changes to medical plan/benefits during the life of the contract. Please contact NWH HR/Benefits for additional information on plans and how to sign up prior to April 2017.

EXAMPLE - Classic PPO
Employee $75.00
Employee and Spouse $279.00
Employee and children $189.00
Employee and family $399.00
A consumer driven health plan will also be available.

Incentive Shifts – Now paid for nurses working beyond their normal FTE - removing requirement that nurses work 48 hours in the week to be eligible for incentive shifts.

Professional Practice Issues – Enhanced language and processes for RN involvement with nurse staffing issues.

Education Funds – RNs are guaranteed 200.00 per year (prorated by FTE) for educational/professional leave.

Enhanced Bereavement Leave – Additional time/flexibility

Work Day Definition - 8, 10, and 12 hour shift will be considered normal work days. AND – additional contract language that protects nurses who are working 8 hour shifts and want to continue to work 8 hour shifts.

Watch your email and this page over the next week. We will be notifying you re: times/dates for reviewing entire contract prior to voting. We will also provide you information on the voting process.

In Solidarity,

Your Negotiating Team Cathy Powers, RN, Local Unit Chair; Cathy Sanders, RN, Local Unit Grievance Officer; Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer; Judy Brown, RN; Sheri Devos, RN; Mary McNaughton, RN; Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative, 206-575-7979, ext. 3045

Wear Blue - Monday 11/07/2016

Your Negotiating Team is meeting again with Northwest management for our ninth negotiation session on Monday, November 7th , 2016.

Show your support by wearing blue if you are working Sunday night shift through Monday evening shift.

We are also asking you to consider donating annual leave to show you support your team. Your Team Members were paid for the first 6 negotiating sessions but have not been paid for subsequent sessions. Your donated annual leave can help offset the team’s lost wages. We will be back in touch with you about the process for donating annual leave.

We will let you know the outcomes of our Monday session. If you have any questions, please let us know.

In solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team: Cathy Powers, RN, Local Unit Chair; Cathy Sanders, RN, Local Unit Grievance Officer; Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer; Judy Brown, RN; Sheri Devos, RN; Mary McNaughton, RN; Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative, 206-575-7979, ext. 3045

Your WSNA Negotiation Team met with management yesterday for our 8th Negotiation Session. Our next session is on Monday, Nov. 7th.

Yesterday we had a productive exchange of information and ideas. We discussed the definition of the work day and innovative shifts. We continue to work on wages and health care costs as well as proposals by management related to repayment of RN residency and RN specialty education/training.

Thanks to all of you who supported us by wearing blue and those yellow stickers!

Plan to wear blue again Monday, Nov. 7. We will let you know what else you can do to demonstrate your support for your team and contract as we get closer to Nov. 7. It would be great to get a contract before election day!

Please let us know if you have any questions.

In solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team: Cathy Powers, RN, Local Unit Chair; Cathy Sanders, RN, Local Unit Grievance Officer; Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer; Judy Brown, RN; Sheri Devos, RN; Mary McNaughton, RN; Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative, 206-575-7979, ext. 3045

Next session scheduled Oct. 20, 2016

Your WSNA Negotiation Team is scheduled to meet with Northwest management on Thursday, Oct. 20 for our eighth session.
We are asking you to support us as we return to the bargaining table!

How can you support your team?
On Oct. 20th, wear WSNA blue and the yellow sticker that your team distributes.
Show management that Northwest Nurses are sticking together for a fair contract now.

In Solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team: Cathy Powers, Cathy Sanders, Mary McNaughton, Tom Booze, Judy Brown, Sheri Devos
Sue O’Donnell, Nurse Rep, sodonnell@wsna.org or 800-231-8482, ext. 3045

Get out the vote!

WSNA and NWH management will be meeting again in mid/late October to resume contract negotiations. We met last in late August. At that time, we agreed we would resume negotiations following some preexisting scheduling conflicts. Initially we had looked at resuming meetings in late September, now we are looking at mid October.

As we resume negotiations, we want to send management the clear message that Northwest RNs want this contract settled. Nurses want a fair contract and we want a fair contract NOW. Please watch your emails and phones. We will be sending information on how you can let management know that Northwest Nurses want to get this contract done!

If you have questions, please contact members of your Negotiation team or your Nurse Representative.

In Solidarity,
Your WSNA Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, Local Unit Chair
Cathy Sanders, RN, Local Unit Grievance Officer
Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer
Judy Brown, RN
Sheri Devos, RN
Mary McNaughton, RN
Barbara Friesen, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative, 206-575-7979, ext. 3045

Plan to Attend a Drop-In Local Unit Meeting on Monday

Date:
Monday, August 8, 2016
Times:
0700 – 0900
1400 - 1600
Place:
E-Wing Auditorium

The E- Wing houses the Gero-Psych Unit and is at the most northwest corner of the Northwest Hospital Campus. The Auditorium is past the Nurses Station - there will be signs posted in Gero-Psych/E-Wing to help you find the Auditorium.

Northwest Hospital Map

These meetings are your opportunity to meet with members of Your Negotiating Team. We will discuss important issues that are being addressed in negotiations. The meeting is informal – drop in when you have time. Get Informed – Get Involved!

In Solidarity,

Your WSNA Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, WSNA Local Unit Chair
Cathy Sanders, RN, WSNA Local Unit Grievance Officer
Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Treasurer/Secretary
Judy Brown, RN
Sheri Devos, RN
Mary McNaughton, RN
Barbara Friesen, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative 206-575-7979 ext.3045

The 2016 WSNA Union Leadership Conference in beautiful Lake Chelan is scheduled for Sept 25-27 2016. Nurses from across the state will convene for an update on the national and state labor scenes, learn how to be more effective leaders in our own workplaces, celebrate our successes and strategize for what’s coming next. This conference will energize you, educate you, and make you a more effective participant in your profession and your union. Who knows – you may even be inspired to become a Local Unit Officer yourself! Last year attendees received up to 7 CEUs for attending workshops and presentations.

Your Local Unit Officers are sponsoring 4 Northwest nurses to attend the conference. You are eligible if you are a WSNA member. The sponsorships will cover registration costs and reimbursement of hotel costs and mileage. Contact one of your Local Unit Officers or your WSNA Nurse Representative Sue O’Donnell sodonnell@wsna.org for more information or to reserve your spot at this event.

The town of Chelan is located near the center of Washington State, 180 miles east of Seattle and 160 miles west of Spokane.

No Contract Yet!

Plan to attend a Drop-In Local Unit Meeting on:

Date:
Monday, August 8, 2016
Times:
0700 – 0900
1400 - 1600
Place:
TBA

Your Negotiating Team met with NWH management for our seventh day of negotiations on Wednesday, July 27th. While we have made progress in these negotiations, there are important outstanding issues that remain unresolved. Therefore, We Do NOT have Tentative Agreement to present to you on August 8th.

On Wednesday our discussions focused on:

Wages
Both WSNA and NWH recognize that nurses need a raise – we don’t agree on how much that raise should be and how it should be implemented over the life of the contract

STEPS
Both WSNA and NWH are proposing adding additional STEPS to the existing STEP ladder. We differ on how/where these STEPS should be added.

Health Care Benefits
Our differences center around Northwest’s proposed changes/increases to your healthcare plan costs.

Hours of work and definition of the work day
WSNA is working to protect your interests in preventing unwanted changes to your work day.

Come to a drop in meeting on August 8th for more information on contract issues and to hear what we can do to send management the message that You Want a Fair Contract Now!

In Solidarity Your Negotiating Team: Cathy Powers, Cathy Sanders, Mary McNaughton, Judy Brown
Sue O’Donnell, Nurse Rep, sodonnell@wsna.org or 800-231-8482 ext. 3045

Plan to attend a Drop-In Local Unit Meeting
When: Monday, August 8, 2016.
Times: 0700 – 0900 and 1400 - 1600
Place: TBA

Your Negotiating Team met with NWH management for our sixth day of negotiations on Friday, July 22nd. Our session on Friday was by far the most productive to date. Our discussions focused on:

• Economics – addressing wages/Steps and premium pay
• Health Care Benefits
• Education
• Hours of work and definition of the work day

Our next session is this Wednesday, July 27th. We hope to continue making progress on that date.

If we do not reach a Tentative Agreement on July 27th, we will share with you where we are at and what our next steps will be so that management understands You Want a Fair Contract Now!

In Solidarity Your Negotiating Team; Cathy Powers, Cathy Sanders, Mary McNaughton, Judy Brown
Sue O’Donnell, Nurse Rep, sodonnell@wsna.org or 800-231-8482 ext 3045

Your team continues to stand united in representing your professional practice and economic interests.

We met with NWH management for our fifth day of negotiations on Tuesday, July 12th. It was a long day of dialogue.
Our next Negotiation Sessions are scheduled for July 22 and July 27th. Please contact us if you have questions.

In Solidarity

Your WSNA Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, WSNA Local Unit Chair
Cathy Sanders, RN, WSNA Local Unit Grievance Officer
Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Treasurer/Secretary
Judy Brown, RN
Sheri Devos, RN
Mary McNaughton, RN
Barbara Friesen, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative

Your WSNA Negotiation Team met with NWH Management on Thursday, June 9th for our third Contract Negotiation Session.

We were able to reach several tentative agreements during this session but we have a lot left to accomplish. WSNA is still waiting to see management’s comprehensive proposal.

Our fourth session is scheduled for Thursday, June 16, 2016.
We are scheduling two additional negotiation sessions with management and will let you know when Sessions 5 and 6 are scheduled.

We will report back to you next week after our 4th Session on June 16th.

Remember - Your Negotiation Team is your reliable source for information. We will continue to provide you with updates during these negotiations. Please let us know what you are thinking and bring your questions to us!

In Solidarity
Your WSNA Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, WSNA Local Unit Chair
Cathy Sanders, RN, WSNA Local Unit Grievance Officer
Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Treasurer/Secretary
Judy Brown, RN
Sheri Devos, RN
Mary McNaughton, RN
Barbara Friesen, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative

Your WSNA Negotiations Team and Northwest Management met for our second Contract Negotiation Session on Thursday, June 2, 2016.
Management presented their non-economic proposals and we were able to reach tentative agreements on several issues.
We have lots more work to do over our non-economic issues – and this session was a good start!

WSNA has not yet seen Management’s economic proposals.
We expect to see their proposals at our 3rd Negotiation Session scheduled to take place this week on Thursday, June 9th.

Remember - Your Negotiation Team is your reliable source for information. We will continue to provide you with updates during these negotiations. Please let us know what you are thinking and bring your questions to us!

In Solidarity
Your WSNA Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, WSNA Local Unit Chair
Cathy Sanders, RN, WSNA Local Unit Grievance Officer
Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Treasurer/Secretary
Judy Brown, RN
Sheri Devos, RN
Mary McNaughton, RN
Barbara Friesen, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative

Your WSNA Negotiating Team and Northwest Management held our first Contract Negotiation Session on Thursday, May 26th 2016. Mike Sanderson, WSNA attorney, presented our proposed contract changes during that meeting. These proposed changes address important issues identified by Northwest RNs. Additional holiday time, improvement in wages, and funding for continuing education are examples of the issues addressed in our comprehensive proposal.

Additional Negotiation Sessions are scheduled for June 2, 9, and 16, 2016.

Your Negotiation Team is your reliable source for information. We will continue to provide you with updates during these negotiations. Please let us know what you are thinking and bring your questions to us!

In Solidarity
Your WSNA Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, WSNA Local Unit Chair
Cathy Sanders, RN, WSNA Local Unit Grievance Officer
Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Treasurer/Secretary
Judy Brown, RN
Sheri Devos, RN
Mary McNaughton, RN
Barbara Friesen, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative

Your Local Unit Meeting is scheduled for May 4th, 2016. Drop In from 1-4 pm in the Diabetes Services Classroom, Hospital E-Wing

Join Members of Your Negotiating Team for Food, Door Prizes, and Lots of Good Information regarding Upcoming Contract Negotiations. Come hear about contract issues. Meet members of the negotiating team. Discover ways you can get involved.

We look forward to seeing you there!

In Solidarity,
Your Negotiating Team

Your negotiating team members are busy preparing for upcoming contract negotiations. Thanks to all of you who responded to the WSNA contract survey. Your team has reviewed the results of the survey, identified priority issues, and met with WSNA attorney Mike Sanderson to address our proposals.

We are currently scheduled to meet with management on the following days:
May 26th, June 6th, June 9th and June 16th.

Prior to meeting with management, we will be having a Local Unit Meeting the week of May 2nd. Look for an announcement with the date and time later this week.

Also – something new this negotiation session…
We will be launching a Facebook page soon. You will be able to find information about negotiations and issues that affect You on both the WSNA local page site and on our soon-to-be launched Facebook site.

Once again, thanks to all of you who responded to the contract survey and thanks to all of you who have indicated you will help during negotiations. If you haven’t heard from us yet about helping out, you will soon!

Thanks,

In Solidarity
Your WSNA Negotiating Team:
Cathy Powers, RN, WSNA Local Unit Chair
Cathy Sanders, RN, WSNA Local Unit Grievance Officer
Tom Booze, RN, WSNA Local Unit Treasurer/Secretary
Judy Brown, RN
Sheri Devos, RN
Mary McNaughton, RN
Barbara Friesen, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative
Sue O’Donnell, RN, WSNA Nurse Representative

The current contract between WSNA and your local unit expires May 15, 2016. This survey is our first step in our preparation for contract negotiations. Your input is critical in determining our priorities as we head to the bargaining table. It is vital that we know your issues and concerns prior to the start of the negotiations.

Take a moment to complete this survey now. The power of representation comes from the willingness of Registered Nurses to come together. Our strength is in unity! Remember, in order for WSNA to be an effective, strong, and influential voice for you at the negotiation table, we need your involvement and commitment.

Click here to take the survey.

Please provide us with your current contact information. WSNA and your negotiating team members do not share this information with anyone. It is only collected so that we may contact you if we have questions about issues and so that we may share important information with you regarding negotiations. Last day to complete the survey is March 16, 2016. For assistance contact Sue O’Donnell at 800-231-8482, ext. 3045 or sodonnell@wsna.org.

To receive electronic negotiation updates and newsletters, send your HOME EMAIL to: sodonnell@wsna.org and you will be added to the membership database. For those who have already sent their home emails - THANK YOU!

WSNA and your Local Unit Officers met with management for a second time on October 26th. We proposed that your medical benefits be maintained as they are and at the current cost to employees.

We have another negotiation session scheduled in November!!!
Stay tuned for more information!!

In Solidarity, Your NW Local Unit Officers - Cathy Powers, Cathy Sanders, Tom Booze and Walt Benc.

Please contact your Local Unit Officers or your WSNA Nurse Representative Jennifer Swackhammer with any questions at jswackhammer@wsna.org.

As you know NWH is proposing significant changes to your health benefits. WSNA will be soon be bargaining over these changes as the contract requires. You can show your support of our efforts by wearing stickers that say “We care for Northwest, Northwest should care for us.” SEIU-represented employees at NWH are facing similar health benefits issues in their contract negotiations and will be engaging in informational picketing on October 7th. Please be aware that the WSNA contract PROHIBITS NWH nurses from “inciting, encouraging or participating in any strike, sympathy strike, picketing, walkout, slowdown, sick out or other work stoppage of any nature whatsoever.”

Questions, concerns, comments? Come Chat with WSNA in the Cafeteria!

Your WSNA Nurse Representative will be at NW on the following dates:

*October 8th, November 12th, and December 17th from 1400-1600

Come to the cafeteria and look for the small WSNA sign.
*dates may be cancelled without notice due to unforeseen circumstances.

What is all this talk about the medical plans?

WSNA and your Local Unit Officers are aware of the Hospital’s proposed 2016 changes to your current medical plans. We have requested a meeting with management to discuss these changes and are in the process of scheduling dates for this meeting.

We Want To Hear From You!

Your Local Unit Officers and WSNA Nurse Rep are holding a meeting for you to come and have your questions answered and / or to voice your concerns.
We will be in the Rehab Dining Room on Tuesday, September 15th from 1430-1730. Come make sure your voice is heard! We look forward to seeing you!

Your Local Unit Officers would like to invite you to attend The Washington State Nurses Association’s annual Leadership Conference! This year the conference will take place September 27-29 at Campbell’s Resort on Lake Chelan. Come find out about the latest developments in the nursing profession, the state and local labor movement, get free hours toward license renewal and network with nurses from across the state!

The Local Unit Officers are offering to pay the registration fee for 2 NW Hospital Nurses and will reimburse up to 2 nights lodging if those two selected to go are willing to write a short note discussing what they learned at the Leadership Conference and how they may apply that information to their nursing practice. For more information, please contact your Local Unit Chair Cathy Powers at cathy.powers@comcast.net.

We Are Here For You!!

Have a question, concern or simply want to chat? Your WSNA Nurse Representative and officers will be in the cafeteria bimonthly to support our members!

Planned times are May 7, June 11th and July 9th between 1400-1600 and May 26th, June 23rd and July 28th between 1100-1300…look for the small WSNA sign.

*Due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts, these times and days may be cancelled without notice