Members of a national nurses union are asking Bluefield Regional Medical Center’s management to discuss patient care and other issues.

On Aug. 25, 2012, BRMCs’ nurses voted to become members of the National Nurses United Union, said BRMC Nurse Brenda Meadwell, RN. The union held a press conference today outside the hospital.

“They don’t even recognize us,” Meadwell said, adding that repeated requests for meetings with management have been declined.

We’re here to speak for our patients. Everything we do is about patient care,” Meadwell said. “We became nurses for that reason, is to help people, and Community Health Systems is really not allowing us to do that.”

Meadwell and Nurse Michael W. Adams, RN, said the hospital has a nurse shortage. Not having enough equipment is another issue.

“What we want them to do is pay attention to us. We have asked them many times to meet with us and discuss issues of patient care, and it’s always fallen on deaf ears,” Meadwell said.

Officials with BRMC issued a statement today.

“Bluefield Regional Medical Center is completely committed to providing high-quality health services for our community. We are proud of the many wonderful caregivers on our team and appreciate the professional and compassionate care they provide for their patients. Bluefield Regional schedules its staff according to the number and needs of the patients in our care. Our hospital is focused on safe practices and providing excellent care for patients,” BRMC officials said in the statement.

By Christina Ianzito