New Contract with Stronger Patient Protections

Registered nurses at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Reno, Nev. voted Tuesday and Wednesday to ratify a new collective bargaining contract that they say protects patient care standards and provides a safer workplace environment for nurses. It is the first contract that NNOC-Nevada has negotiated with St. Mary's since it was acquired by Prime Healthcare Services from Dignity Health (formerly Catholic Healthcare West) in 2012.  

The pact, which covers 500 RNs, continues to require the hospital to meet safe, minimum nurse- to-patient ratios and includes a process whereby those ratios may be improved.

Additionally, the pact provides supplemental insurance protection for nurses who are victims of workplace violence or needle stick accidents.

The nurses also secured lower healthcare premiums, a 10 percent raise over the two and one-half year term of the contract, and up to three paid days off to attend continuing education classes.

“As emergency room nurses, we treat every patient who comes through our door without hesitation,” said RN Katie Polimeni. “Knowing that we have a workplace violence benefit and improved health insurance lets us continue the work of saving lives with the confidence that nurses and our families are protected.”

 
St. Mary’s negotiating team celebrates new agreement

“Hospital corporations may come and go but the nurses of St. Mary's and NNOC-Nevada are here to stay,” said RN James Worley. “We're proud to have a contract that enhances safety for patients and nurses alike while improving educational opportunities for nurses to provide an even higher standard of care.”

www.NNOC.net

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