Feature
Standing together for real staffing solutions
Staffing has been a top issue for WSNA members for many years. In 2021, with the delta variant of COVID-19 bringing yet another wave of infections and hospitalizations, WSNA began working with the other two primary health care unions in the state, SEIU Healthcare 1199NW and UFCW 21, to fight for real solutions for safe staffing.
We know this is a fight that will take all of us working together — and our members across the state have been stepping up by speaking to legislators, participating in sticker-up actions, sharing your stories and videos, and taking our message to the media. The evidence is clear that safe staffing saves lives, and the public recognizes the value of nurses like never before. This is our moment.
Stories
Support each other, learn from each other, build each other up
"I became a nurse in 1994 — I feel very fortunate to have had such a rewarding career as a nurse and union member for the last 27 years. I feel nursing is a calling and vocation and not just a job."
Meet David Keepnews
David Keepnews has a long track record and distinguished career as a nurse, labor proponent, professor, policy specialist and advocate for our practice. He joins WSNA at a critical time for our members, our union and our profession. David is already bringing his experience, skills and passion to the job.
Union solidarity and perseverance win fair contracts
WSNA members are raising their voices and standing together to win the contracts they deserve. Congratulations to these local units who recently won at the bargaining table (as of November 2021).
Letter from Lynnette Vehrs, WSNA president
The profession of nursing has always been challenging, but now it has become dangerous as well. The COVID-19 virus has changed the landscape altogether. We continue to see surge after surge of increased cases and deaths. Nurses are facing severe burnout and fatigue as the pandemic rages on.
WSNA partners with DOH to support #VaccinateWA campaign
WSNA nurses from all over Washington state are participating in the VaccinateWA campaign. Listen to their stories in these powerful videos encouraging the public to get vaccinated.
Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic through partnering within community
Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses Organization (MMPNO) was established in 1949 to provide community services and education to student nurses. The history of the organization surrounds Mary Mahoney, who was the first Black professional nurse in the United States.
Pearls for practice - What you should know about nurse technicians
In the last 18 years, nurse techs have been welcomed into many health care facilities in Washington — although some nurses may have never worked with a nurse tech. So, what does a nurse need to know when working with a nurse tech?
Disaster preparedness: Start the new year prepared
The start of a new year is the perfect time to ensure your disaster supplies are up to date. While disaster planning isn’t usually at the top of everyone’s to-do list, a small amount of planning now can make a big difference when you’re faced with a natural disaster or emergency.