Of the 140 line workers involved in power restoration work here last week, nearly 50 were from Xcel Energy locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin. I work at a large urban hospital. I am proud to introduce myself as a registered nurse. However, I disagree with the idea put forth by some officials that this shortage is not compromising patient care. The person who is in the hospital bed would tell you otherwise.
Health care is in crisis.
Registered nurses are like the canaries in the coal mine. We are singing out about the problems that affect every person who has to interact with a broken system. Talk to RNs about their work environment. Interview the staff nurse after a hectic night shift. Then you will know that patient care is compromised.