The heat is on and the time to act is now at Providence at Home with Compassus – Inland Northwest (PAH-INW)! Summer brings fresh opportunities to make a lasting impact in our work environment. Whether you’re ready to join a committee, take on a leadership role as an officer or shop steward, or advocate for your colleagues, this is the season to step up and be the change you want to see. Let’s work together to create a vibrant, supportive, and fair workplace. The summer of change starts with you—get involved today!

June 2025 Conference Committee Update (June 2, 2025)

1. New Employee Orientation (NEO) Information:
   • NEO information was discussed and confirmed to be provided to all new employees to ensure they are fully informed about their rights, benefits, and workplace expectations.
   • We requested to be provided a space to meet new hires and management is amendable and will be communicating information to create a place during NEO.
   • Contract Reference: As per Article 6.5 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the employer is required to provide new hires with orientation materials that cover all necessary information related to job duties, safety practices, and policies. This ensures that new employees are informed from the start.
2. Safety App:
   • The Safety App was discussed in the context of improving nurse safety. Management will provide more information soon about which app and the details.  The employer is obligated to provide safety alert devices, such as the Bond Air Guardian or similar services, at no cost to all nurses. Nurses will be required to upload the app to their work phones. This app will enhance safety by providing immediate emergency alerts and support.
   • Contract Reference: As per Article 23.2 of the CBA, "The Employer shall provide Bond Air Guardian services or similar services at no cost to all nurses which shall be uploaded by all nurses onto their work phones." This aligns with the employer’s responsibility to provide a safe working environment as detailed in Article 18.1 of the CBA.
3. On-Call Shifts and Sign-Up Process:
   • There was a discussion regarding the process for on-call shifts, and management is currently evaluating this process. A Request for Information (RFI) was submitted to gather more details, which will help the Union better assess the situation and evaluate how the on-call shifts are being assigned and managed. We are awaiting further information from management to address the concerns about the fairness and equity of the process. This should include all nurses who are performing bargaining unit work.
   • Contract Reference: As per Article 7.7 of the CBA, scheduling shall be done in a fair and equitable manner, with volunteer preferences given priority. If there are insufficient volunteers, management may assign on-call shifts starting with the least senior nurses, ensuring that seniority is a determining factor when making these assignments.
4. Timekeeping for On-Call and Premium Pay Using Workday:
   • Workday Timekeeping procedures for on-call shifts were reviewed. Premium codes should be found in Workday.  Please consult your manager if you have difficulties with coding your timecard.
   • Contract Reference: According to Article 10.5 of the CBA, nurses on night on-call status will be paid $7.50 per hour for all hours on-call, and nurses who are called back from on-call will be compensated for a minimum of two (2) hours at their regular rate. The appropriate premium pay should be tracked in Workday to ensure compliance with the agreed-upon rates.
5. Acknowledgment of the New Employee Handbook & PTO:
   • There was discussion about the acknowledgment process for the new Employee Handbook. Nurses are required to read and acknowledge 55 pages of information regarding workplace policies, safety protocols, and benefits.
     It was noted that management was not fully aware of the updates and changes in the handbook. This issue will be addressed by management to ensure better alignment and understanding between management and staff.  Management to provide update as to expectations regarding acknowledgement of handbook.
   • Contract Reference: The PTO (Paid Time Off) and related policies are detailed in Article 11 of the CBA. As specified in Section 11.2, nurses are entitled to accrue and use PTO for planned and unplanned time off, and holidays will continue to be deducted from the PTO bank. This policy ensures that nurses are compensated for time off and can plan for their PTO accordingly.
6. Paid Time Off (PTO):
   • It was confirmed that holidays will continue to be deducted from the PTO bank, and nurses will use PTO for any scheduled time off during holidays.
   • Contract Reference: Article 11 outlines the guidelines for Paid Time Off (PTO), including accrual rates based on length of service and how PTO is applied to holiday time. As noted in Section 11.2, all full-time and part-time nurses are eligible to accrue PTO based on their regular straight-time hours worked each pay period, up to a maximum of 40 hours per week and 2080 per year.

What is the Conference Committee?

The Conference Committee is a crucial platform for open dialogue between nurses and management, providing space to address issues relating to our Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). According to Article 6.5 of the CBA, this committee’s role is to discuss and resolve matters concerning working conditions, staffing, hours, wages, and other relevant topics affecting our day-to-day work life. This committee aims to foster collaboration between nurses and management to ensure a fair and effective working environment for all.  The Conference Committee is held at 4 PM.  Next Meeting is July 7, 2025.

Why Should You Join?

Participating in the Conference Committee allows you to be directly involved in shaping policies and practices that impact your work. Your presence and input are vital in addressing the concerns that matter most to you and your colleagues. Whether it’s advocating better working conditions, voicing staffing concerns, or discussing contract language, your participation ensures that the voices of all staff members are heard.

In Case you are wondering … how to access information from your Providence or Compassus Employee File and/or Payroll:

• Former and current caregivers can contact Providence at Home with Compassus Payroll at payroll@compassus.com to request pay stubs
• Want a copy of your employee file contact colleaguerelations@compassus.com to request a copy.
• Former caregivers of Providence can contact the HR Service Center at Providence at 888-687-3753 to request their pay stubs and a copy of their file.

WSNA Convention 2025 Highlights

The Washington State Nurses Association held its 2025 Convention and General Assembly from April 30 to May 2 at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center. This event brought together nurses from across the state to engage in professional development, discuss key issues facing the nursing profession, and participate in the governance of WSNA.

The convention featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including workplace violence advocate and survivor, a Washington Department of Health regulator, and a Navy veteran who is also a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. These sessions provided valuable insights into the challenges and advancements in nursing practice.

During the General Assembly, WSNA members had the opportunity to debate and vote on proposed resolutions and bylaws amendments that will guide the association's direction and priorities for the coming years. This biennial meeting is a crucial platform for members to influence the policies and strategies of WSNA.

Additionally, the convention included a gala dinner and awards ceremony, where outstanding nurses were recognized for their contributions to the profession. This event highlighted the dedication and excellence of nurses across Washington state.

For more information about the WSNA Convention and to access resources from the event, visit the official WSNA website.

 IENA Gala Honors Susan Worster, RN, with Lifetime Achievement Award

At the 2025 IENA Spring Gala, held at the Davenport Grand Hotel, Susan Worster, BSN, RN, was honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognizes Susan's outstanding contributions to the field of nursing, particularly in wounds, ostomy, and continence care. With over 30 years of service at Providence VNA Home Health, Susan has mentored countless nurses and played a pivotal role in advancing best practices in patient care. Her leadership in preventing urinary tract infections in patients with indwelling catheters and her advocacy for evidence-based wound care have significantly impacted both patient outcomes and the nursing profession. Susan’s dedication to nursing excellence continues to inspire all those who work alongside her. Congratulations, Susan!

WSNA LEC Meeting

At the recent Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA) Leadership and Education Committee (LEC) meeting, Kathleen Thompson, RN, was present representing Providence at Home with Compassus Inland Northwest (PAH-INW). This meeting brought together nurses and union leaders from across the state to discuss important issues impacting the nursing profession, healthcare policies, and worker advocacy.

Kathleen’s participation in the LEC meeting was a crucial step in ensuring that PAH-INW nurses' voices are heard at the state level. By being present at these important discussions, Kathleen’s continued involvement in WSNA leadership helps strengthen the connection between our local union and broader state efforts to advance the nursing profession and improve working conditions.

These LEC meetings provide a valuable space for ongoing education, networking, and strategizing, ultimately allowing union members to stay connected and informed about changes in healthcare legislation, union rights, and collective bargaining efforts. Kathleen’s engagement with WSNA continues to highlight our union’s commitment to improving the working conditions and well-being of all nurses at PAH-INW.

“Hello to whomever takes time to read this, my name is Jonathan Thomas. I've always understood that unions are important, and there is power in collective bargaining. My father was part of a union, and he's still reaping the benefits of his membership well into retirement. I've worked many jobs throughout my life, and I've been overworked and poorly compensated by the corporations that employed me. Because the jobs I had weren't union. I've also seen firsthand the lengths that companies will stoop to in an attempt to bust unions or prevent them from forming, and that upsets me a great deal. I'm very excited to have the opportunity to join the WSNA and be part of the SRLC . I'm looking forward to meeting you and hopefully helping skilled labor stay strong.”—J.T. Thomas RN

We are excited to welcome and thank Jonathan Thomas for stepping up and joining the Spokane Regional Labor Council (SRLC)! Jonathan’s participation is a valuable contribution to the ongoing advocacy for workers’ rights in our region. His involvement will help strengthen our collective voice and influence within the broader labor movement.

The Benefits of Belonging to the SRLC

The Spokane Regional Labor Council (SRLC) is an essential part of the labor movement in the Spokane area, bringing together unions to strengthen collective bargaining power and advocate for workers' rights on a local level. By belonging to the SRLC, union members benefit from:

• Stronger Collective Voice: Through collaboration, we amplify the issues that matter most to workers, advocating for fair wages, improved working conditions, and workers' rights protections.
• Community Support: The SRLC provides a platform for networking, education, and support among local unions, fostering solidarity and the opportunity to work together for shared goals.
• Political Advocacy: The SRLC actively engages in local politics to promote policies that benefit working families, including issues related to healthcare, labor laws, and workplace protections.
• Access to Resources and Education: SRLC members have access to training, workshops, and resources that help enhance leadership skills, support labor movements, and ensure members are informed and equipped to advocate for change.

We truly appreciate Jonathan’s commitment to strengthening our union community and look forward to seeing the positive impact he will make within the SRLC. Let’s continue to work together to build a more supportive and powerful collective voice for all workers.

“I have been an active Registered Nurse for over 40 years.  I have spent a good deal of that time in Home Health, which I have always enjoyed.  Safety every day is always a consideration, and I’m committed to advocating for a safe working environment for us all.  I appreciate the opportunity to represent my coworkers. “—Janice Trotter RN

We are excited to welcome Janice Trotter, RN, to the Safety Committee! Janice has long been a dedicated advocate for nursing staff and patient safety, and we are thrilled that she will continue this important work as part of the committee. Her passion for fostering a safer work environment will undoubtedly have a positive impact on our ongoing efforts to improve safety practices.

The Safety Committee, as outlined in Article 18.1 of our Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), is responsible for identifying and addressing safety hazards, reviewing reports of unsafe working conditions, and ensuring that all safety protocols are adhered to. Nurses are encouraged to report any unsafe working conditions, and the committee is committed to investigating and resolving these concerns promptly. We are confident that Janice's experience and dedication will be a great asset in this role.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation for Janice’s willingness to take on this important responsibility and are excited to work together to continue creating a safe and supportive environment for all staff members.

Safety Committee (Article 18.1)
The Safety Committee serves as a platform for open discussion and resolution of safety concerns, ensuring that both nurses and management work together to maintain a safe and secure workplace. No nurse shall be disciplined for reporting unsafe working conditions, and the committee is committed to addressing these issues to protect everyone’s well-being.

“I was born and raised in Spokane before moving to the Philadelphia region in 2001 to become a nanny. I eventually returned to school and graduated from Abington Memorial Hospital's Dixon School of Nursing in 2009. I worked as a pediatric home care nurse for 13 years before moving back to Spokane. When I returned, I worked as a hospice nurse for a while before coming to VNA. Home health and community nursing is something I've felt passionate about since doing those rotations in nursing school.”—Tamara Ward RN

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Tamara Ward for stepping up to be a part of the Nurse Practice Committee (NPC). Tamara’s involvement in this important committee ensures that our nursing practice standards are continuously evaluated and improved. Her commitment to advocating for both nurses and patients strengthens our collective ability to make meaningful changes within our practice environment.

We appreciate Tamara’s dedication and look forward to her contributions in shaping the future of nursing practice at PAH-INW.

Nurse Practice Committee (NPC): A Vital Role in Enhancing Nursing Practice

The Nurse Practice Committee (NPC) plays a critical role in improving the quality of care and the working environment for nurses. This committee provides an essential platform for nurses to engage directly with management on issues relating to staffing, patient care, and nursing practices. As outlined in Article 19.2 of our Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the Nurse Practice Committee is designed to foster collaboration between management and nursing staff to address important practice-related concerns. The committee is tasked with evaluating staffing needs, reviewing nursing practices, and working to improve overall patient care and nurse well-being.

Article 19.2:
"The purpose of this committee shall be to discuss and improve nursing practice, including evaluating staffing needs. The function of the committee shall be limited to an advisory rather than a decision-making capacity. The committee shall be established on a permanent basis and consist of at least two but no more than six (6) representatives of management and nurses of the Employer. The committee shall meet every second month or at least quarterly."

We Need Your Involvement!

Passionate about advocating for your rights as a nurse and improving the work environment at PAH-INW, we encourage be involved. The Conference Committee and/or The Nurse Practice Committee provide an excellent opportunity for you to collaborate with fellow nurses and management to drive positive changes in our workplace.

We are actively seeking officers and shop stewards. Your participation will help us build a more effective and inclusive team that can address issues in a timely and comprehensive manner.

Step up to a leadership role that provides valuable opportunities to grow professionally!

Next Steps

Get Involved!  Ask for more information, please contact Kitt Ruchert BSN RN at kruchert@wsna.org or (206)809-5036 (mobile). We look forward to hearing from you and working together to make our workplace better for everyone.

Let’s continue to work together to build a better future for our profession!

Questions? Contact WSNA Nurse Representative Kitt Ruchert at kruchert@wsna.org.