Stanford ValleyCare registered nurses recently voted by an overwhelming majority to ratify their first contract with the California Nurses Association (CNA), the union announced today.

Nurses say the contract brings ValleyCare RNs up to par with surrounding Bay Area hospitals on working conditions, and codifies important staffing and patient care guidelines.

"We are proud that this contract will provide better patient care by giving nurses a voice in staffing," said urgent care registered nurse Lou Puspoki.

Nurses emphasize that a strong contract to ensure that nurses have a say in patient care conditions is especially critical during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This contract is a big win for nurses and for our patients, who need us more than ever right now,” said Puspoki.