The economic reality is something that most of us are not aware of or care about. The reality is that the economic and political factors affect us everyday and we all need to be involved. Political advocacy for our patients is the only way we will acquire any empowerment. Union activities do not foster the political skills nurses need. Finally, a unionized hospital can harm an institution's public image and decrease the public's confidence in the health care workers.
Unions make a contract negotiation a media event.
Unfortunately, not all the information given to the media is accurate and truthful. Each of us who has worked in a unionized facility or is considering unionizing must make his or her own decision. Yes, I respect and understand nurses who feel they must walk. But am here to care for the patient, even under less than ideal conditions. All Rights Reserved.