We had our first federal mediation session on July 10. We brought the mediator up to speed on issues that we face and shared our perspective on those issues with him. We exchanged some proposals with management, but not much progress has been made. Management continues to push unsatisfactory wages and unsatisfactory staffing and workplace violence language. They continue to insist on replacing EIT with a Short Term Disability plan. We have made proposals to ensure that we recruit and retain the best nurses that we can and to ensure that our fellow nurses and our patients are safe.

Something has to change, and it is time to unite. We are working to make our unit stronger every day. More to come soon on further actions and next steps. If you have not stepped up to the plate, now is the time. We need all hands on deck. If you can offer your help, please contact your Nurse Rep to discuss next steps.

Our next day of federal mediation is set for August 28.

Questions? Contact WSNA Nurse Representative Jaclyn Perkins at jperkins@wsna.org.