UI Health Nurses Walk Off Jobs, Demand Higher Wages and Better Safety Measures
Nurses’ Demands
About 1,500 nurses at University of Illinois Health went on an indefinite strike Wednesday morning, hoping to reach an agreement for higher wages and improved safety measures. The Illinois Nurses Association (INA) said despite numerous attempts at a compromise, they have been unable to reach an agreement with the health group. The nurses have continued to work since their contract expired August 18.
The nurses’ demands include higher wages to meet rising costs of living, lower staff-to-patient ratios, an increase in paid parental leave from the current six weeks, and an improved safety plan for nurses and patients. They also want to keep specialists working in their areas of expertise rather than across hospital departments and to secure language to protect their contract if any clinics or the hospital itself is sold.
Nurses’ Concerns
LeAndra Jones, a surgical nurse, said she hoped it wouldn’t come to this but was willing to do what it takes to ensure they receive a fair contract.
“What we are paid can’t keep up with the costs of living,” Jones said. “We work long hours, we’re on our feet all day, we are dealing with violence from patients, and we aren’t being compensated for it.”
UI Health’s Response
“UI Health has made numerous investments in safety technologies and programs to protect staff and patients,” the health group said in a statement. The health group said the current safety measures have led to a decrease in incidents of violence against staff.
However, nurses said it’s not enough. The union is asking for more security guards in the emergency department and throughout the hospital.
“Our frontline nurses are facing violence directly. They face assault from patients and their family,” said Roberto Flores, a surgical nurse and union grievance co-chair. “I’m hoping we can help craft how the hospital will handle these situations and help prevent it.”
Current Status
As of Wednesday afternoon, over a dozen proposals still needed to be settled, Flores said.
“We are disappointed that despite progress in negotiations, we have not reached an agreement. UI Health will continue to bargain in good faith to reach a mutually acceptable and fair agreement,” UI Health said in its statement.
The hospital secured a temporary restraining order Tuesday to prevent the nurses from specific care units from walking out. The order, signed by Cook County Circuit Judge Alison Conlon, prohibits 68 nurses, at a time, from joining the strike.
About 575 workers were out at the picket line Wednesday.
Conclusion
The strike by UI Health nurses highlights the ongoing struggles faced by healthcare workers in the United States. As the cost of living continues to rise, nurses are demanding fair compensation and improved working conditions. The strike is a testament to the dedication and commitment of these essential workers, who are fighting for a better future for themselves and their patients.
FAQs
Q: Why are the nurses striking?
A: The nurses are striking to demand higher wages, better working conditions, and improved safety measures.
Q: What are the nurses’ demands?
A: The nurses are demanding higher wages, lower staff-to-patient ratios, an increase in paid parental leave, and an improved safety plan for nurses and patients.
Q: Has UI Health responded to the nurses’ demands?
A: UI Health has responded, stating that they have made numerous investments in safety technologies and programs to protect staff and patients. However, the nurses say it’s not enough and are asking for more security guards in the emergency department and throughout the hospital.
Q: How many nurses are participating in the strike?
A: About 1,500 nurses are participating in the strike.
Q: How long will the strike last?
A: The strike is indefinite, and the nurses will not return to work until a new contract is signed.
