We’re proud to announce two major victories for nurse safety and contract enforcement at St. Joe’s, both hard-fought wins made possible through our solidarity and strength at the bargaining table.

Weapons Detector System Now Operational

The weapons detector system (WDS) is officially live in the Emergency Department. This security enhancement was won during contract negotiations and marks only the second time in Washington state that a WDS has been secured in a nursing contract, the first was at VMMC.

This is a huge win for nurse safety, not just at St. Joe’s but across the state. Because of what we’ve accomplished here, other WSNA-represented nurses are gaining momentum to demand the same protections. St. Clare's is already set to install its WDS in the next month.

Every nurse deserves to feel safe at work. This is a critical step forward in making that vision a reality.

Break Buddy Reporting System Launched

Another key contract victory, the Break Buddy Reporting System, is now live. A "Know-Do-Share" was released this week to guide nurses through how to report when they give or receive a meal or rest break through a break buddy system.

This form is essential for contract enforcement. If you're covering for or being covered by a nurse who already has a patient assignment, submit the form every time. This data ensures management is upholding staffing plans and contractual obligations.

Per the contract, this reporting cannot be used to intimidate, retaliate, or discipline nurses. It is a protected and vital tool for accountability.

Click below to view the Know-Do-Share and learn how to fill out the form.

Upcoming Hospital Staffing Committee – Monday, July 14 at 0900

The next Hospital Staffing Committee (HSC) meeting is Monday, July 14 at 0900 in the MOB Conference Room (across from LabCorp). We’ll be reviewing and voting on staffing plans for most units. These meetings are open to all nurses. Your presence and input matter. Come and make your voice heard.

Med-Surg Town Hall – Tuesday, July 23 at 1730

We’re hosting a virtual town hall for Med-Surg nurses on Tuesday, July 23 at 1730. We want to hear directly from you, your concerns, your victories, and what you want to see prioritized in the next contract. A link to the Teams meeting will be sent next week.

In Solidarity, We Win

These victories didn’t happen by accident. They happened because nurses stood together. Let’s keep that momentum going. Whether it’s attending a staffing meeting, filling out a reporting form, or showing up for your coworkers, your voice is powerful. And together, we are building a safer, stronger workplace for every nurse.

In Solidarity,

Carina Price, Co-Chair
Jessica Lenczycki, Co-Chair
Shannon Suchland, Secretary
Matthew McGuire, Treasurer
Yunna Flenord, Grievance Officer
Kathleen (Kat) Jabasa, Grievance Officer
Teresa Kindell, Membership Coordinator
Kaitlin (Kate) Frazier, Social Media Officer