This summer has been busy with many exciting developments at the hospital and in the labor movement. At St. Clare’s, we’re gearing up for contract negotiations set for early next year. We’re also working closely with management to establish and operate the new Hospital Staffing Committee under the Safe Staffing Law. Read on to see what’s been happening and how you can get involved. We’re excited to continue working alongside you to advocate for safer and better working conditions for nurses at St. Clare’s.

Hospital Staffing Committee

The Hospital Staffing Committee is charging ahead with great enthusiasm. Last month, the committee, consisting of 50% union members (5 WSNA members and 1 SEIU member) and 50% management, reviewed staffing plan proposals for all inpatient units, peri-anesthesia, and the ED. After the first meeting, we rejected the inpatient plans and reconvened this past Monday. Through strong collaboration, we addressed all concerns, strengthened the language in the plans, and reached an agreement on all staffing plans. The plans now await the hospital president’s review. We’re hopeful for swift approval and grateful for the cooperative spirit shown by all sides in the HSC.

Pre-Negotiation Survey

The pre-negotiation survey is now live! This survey is your chance to voice your opinions on the upcoming contract negotiations. It allows us to clearly communicate what nurses want in the new contract. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey today and encourage your fellow nurses to do the same!

Presumptive Eligibility for PTSD for Nurses

One of WSNA’s 2023 legislative priorities was to ensure that Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is recognized as an occupational disease for nurses. This law has been passed, removing barriers for nurses to receive help and treatment for PTSD acquired through their work. Being a nurse is tough. Getting help shouldn’t be. For more information, reach out to your Nurse Representative at JRichardson@WSNA.org or contact Labor and Industries to file a claim.

Missed Meals and Rest Breaks

Labor and Industries has clarified regulations and laws regarding missed meals and rest breaks. This includes information on scheduling breaks, timing of meal breaks during shifts, requirements for meal break waivers, and compensation for missed breaks.

Meal and rest breaks must be uninterrupted unless there’s an emergency. Missed breaks must be paid, or made up within the timeframe defined by LNI, and hospitals must report the number of missed breaks to the state. It’s crucial that nurses report every missed meal and rest break. If you have questions, please contact your Nurse Representative at JRichardson@WSNA.org.

In Solidarity,

Clarissa Korrell, Co-Chair  
Devon Tallma, Co-Chair  
Jessica Cook, Secretary  
Nicole Sandell, Treasurer  
Brandi Poggemann, Membership Officer  
Nikki Wright, Grievance Officer

You can contact WSNA Nurse Representative Jared Richardson, BSN, RN, at jrichardson@wsna.org or WSNA Organizer Grace LaMonte at glamonte@wsna.org.