Bemidji RNs call on hospital to keep critical nursing unit

 

   

 
(Bemidji) – Nov. 25, 2015 – Registered nurses at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center are warning that the quality of safe patient care will be jeopardized if the hospital moves ahead with a plan to eliminate a critical component of nursing.

"The hospital plans to lay off the entire 'float pool' – RNs who work in areas where there is an unexpected need for a nurse," said MNA Bemidji Chair Peter Danielson. "Nurses are very concerned this move will put patients at risk by eliminating trained nurses available to care for patients on an as-needed basis.This is another decision that Sanford is forcing on our community that goes against the professional judgment of bedside nurses."

Sanford initially approached MNA seeking input on its desire to eliminate the float pool. MNA’s response was that the float pool is a critical resource in any hospital of this size, as these nurses ensure that patients get the care they need in urgent situations.

"Rather than working with MNA to improve and maintain the float pool, Sanford managers are now telling nurses they need to apply to other open positions if they want to keep their jobs," said Danielson. "The result will be not be enough RNs to ensure safe patient care."   
 
Even though Sanford reported record high profits in 2014, largely due to reduced labor costs, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, the company seems unwilling to fill open positions so that patients get the care they need and deserve. In fact, Sanford recently reported that because of its profits, it is offering bonuses to some employees. 

"It's apparent Sanford has the resources to ensure there are enough staff to safely care for patients," said Danielson. "We are calling on Sanford to halt this dangerous plan."
 

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