What do our nurses want from hospital?

Nurses from Bonner General Hospital held a rally and a march in Sandpoint on April 12. About 70 nurses and supporters showed up. We spent the warm, spring morning strolling through town with our “We Need Our Nurses” signs. The purpose was to advertise their wish to complete contract negotiations this month with the BGH management. The negotiations have been dragging on for 18 months. A long time indeed! During the march, many motorists waved at us, gave thumbs-up signs, and honked their horns in friendly encouragement.

What do our nurses want? The short list includes: wages competitive with area hospitals, pay in recognition of experience, a viable pension and retirement plan, fair governance and disciplinary procedures, and adequate rest between shifts. Moreover, after talking with a number of nurses that morning, they would prefer a democratic, shared-governance model in which to work. Furthermore, they desire an environment that is intimidation-free, punitive-free, and retaliation-free; in other words, an unthreatening environment, free of fear and authoritarianism. In short, what they need is an enlightened management that treats the nurses, not only fairly, but also with respect and dignity.

You can show your support by sending a signed note saying so, with your name and address printed. Mail it to: Support BGH Nurses, PO Box 216, 206 N. 4th Ave., Sandpoint, ID 83864.

PHILIP A. DEUTCHMAN

Sandpoint