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June/July 2003
Inside…
Single payer health care:
N.E. agenda advances ................2
President’s column: Making
the case for safe staffing .............3
THE NEWSLETTER OF THE MASSACHUSETTS NURSES ASSOCIATION ■ www.massnurses.org ■ VOL. 74 NO. 5
500 RN’s flood June 18 Statehouse hearing MNA on Beacon Hill:
Legislative update .......................4
1 in 3 RNs attribute patient deaths to understaffing Political Pulse:
A study of RNs in Massachusetts released
Rep. Vincent Pedone ...................5
last month establishes that poor RN-to-patient
ratios are resulting in significant harm and
MNA Convention:
even death for patients. According to the
survey, 87 percent of nurses report having
Schedule & registration ............6-7
too many patients to care for, and the results
are devastating to patients: Health & safety ........................8-9
• Alarmingly, nearly one in three
nurses (29 percent) report patient Two MNA bargaining units
deaths directly attributable to having named best nursing team .........10
too many patients to care for
• 67 percent report an increase in medi- UMass/Memorial RNs
cation errors due to understaffing ratifiy agreement........................10
• 64 percent report an increase in com-
plications due to understaffing Newton nurses demonstrate
• 54 percent report readmission of the power of organizing .............11
patients due to understaffing
• 52 percent report injury and harm to MNF nursing scholarships.........12
patients do to understaffing
• 1 in 2 nurses report that poor staffing Benefits Corner .........................12
leads to longer stays for patients
“These shocking conditions exist right MNA elections:
here in Massachusetts, a state that is known
Julie Pinkham, MNA’s executive director, presents the findings from a survey of Mas- Candidate information ..........14-16
around the world as a medical mecca,” said
Karen Higgins, RN, president of the MNA sachusetts RNs to a packed room during the June 18 press conference.
MNA condemns Tenet-SEIU
and one of the spokespeople who released
the survey results at MNA’s State House press area hospitals, follows three national studies and continue to exacerbate the current nurs-
neutrality pact ...........................17
conference on June 18. that paint an equally dismal picture of the ing shortage.
The survey, the first in nine years to quality and safety of patient care, spelling It was commissioned by the MNA and Continuing Education ...........18-19
examine Massachusetts nurses’ views on the out in detail the conditions in Massachusetts
quality of patient care and nurse staffing in that endanger patients and that have caused MNA Member Benefits ..............20
See Rally, Page 5
MNA Board recommends revamp of district structure
At its meeting in May, the MNA Board and the collective bargaining units that are MNA Convention 2003
of Directors passed a motion that will put included in the district.
Save the date for the annual MNA
forward a series of bylaw changes drafted In creating a new structure, the districts
at a special District Leaders Summit that will be renamed “regional councils,” with convention: October 15, 16 & 17
call for a major restructuring of the MNA’s membership in the councils based on where in Worcester. Featured speakers
districts—the regional entities that provide each MNA member lives versus where include Anita Hill, former Boston
members with opportunities for participation he/she works. This change was made Globe reporter Larry Tye and labor
and action on the local and regional level. contact Shirley Duggan at 781- in order to foster local community and union specialist Paul McCarthy. For
The summit was mandated by a vote of 830-5763. political involvement by nurses in differ- more convention information and
the MNA membership at last year’s conven- The MNA is currently divided ent regions of the state. Each council will registration details, see Pages 6&7
tion. The motion called for the leaders of the into five districts, each of which have the same mission and purpose, will or call the MNA Department of Nurs-
MNA districts to come together to explore covers a different region of the state. be required to comply with the MNA ing at 800-882-2056, x727.
ways for the MNA regional structure to be District 1 of MNA, for example, encompasses bylaws and also will work in concert with
more responsive to the local membership. The nurses who live in western Massachusetts - the goals and mission of the statewide orga-
group, with representation and participation from Hampden County to the New York nization. To make the councils more inclusive
by four of the five districts, held a series of boarder. A portion of MNA membership dues of union members, each local bargaining unit
meetings throughout the winter and spring go to the district to which a nurse belongs. The within the boundaries of the council will have
and presented its recommended bylaw districts serve as a localized structure within a seat on the board of directors, with elections For the latest
changes to local boards and to the MNA MNA to help nurses in those regions pursue held for seven other seats. developments
board in May. initiatives specific to them. In addition, regional council dues will be
With its vote, the Board of Directors gives The district structure has existed since 1930, made uniform across all five councils at $30
impacting nurses,
the MNA Bylaws Committee the approval to and little or no change has been made to it per member. This was done to provide equity visit the
prepare the changes for presentation to the during that 70-year period. Under the exist- across the regions. To ensure that each region MNA Web site,
entire membership body at the MNA Annual ing structure, members in different districts has a similar level of service to meet member
www.massnurses.org
Business Meeting, which will be held on Oct. pay a different level of dues. Each district has needs, a certain percentage of regional dues
16 at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. The full its own set of bylaws and holds its own elec- will be pooled into a common fund, with
text of the bylaws will appear in the August tion of officers. In addition, the mission and those funds allocated to establish offices in
issue of the Massachusetts Nurse, and will also purpose of each district differs from district each region and to allow for the hiring of a
be available on line at www.massnurses.org. to district. Under the existing structure there community organizer to assist in mobilizing
To obtain a hard copy of the bylaws by mail, was a lack of a strong link between the district support for local activities.
Page 2 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
Nurses’ Guide to Single-Payer Reform
Single payer agenda advances in New England
By Cissy White
New England residents worried about that a lack of it is dangerous and costly to
health costs and coverage have state leg- residents and the Legislature, which will face
islatures reviewing single-payer system a health care crisis that will only get worse if
options. Outlined below is a state-by-state the system is unchanged. The report said, “All
breakdown. people concerned abut health care in Rhode
Island will increasingly have to choose among
Maine three things—greater human suffering, soar-
The consultants who performed the “Fea- ing spending, and reform.”
sibility Study of a Single-Payer Health Plan “As for Massachusetts and Maine,” Socolar
Model for the State of Maine” concluded that says, “one of the positive things coming out
the model could provide all Maine residents of the studies is the recognition of how huge
with coverage and reduce health care spend- the waste is in the current administration of
ing by 2008. health care.”
“It’s a very positive finding,” said Maine Copies of the full reports may be viewed at:
State Nurses Association’s (MSNA) Executive Maine: www.state.me.us/legis/opla/hsboard.htm
Director Pat Philbrook, RN. “My initial reac- Mass: www.state.ma.us/healthcareaccess
tion was, ‘That’s doable.’ My second reaction Rhode Island: www.healthreformprogram.org
was, ‘Why didn’t they find us savings until Under C: Health Care for all section
2008?’”
Philbrook believes savings will be larger
than what the consultants projected because
they did not factor in savings incurred over
several years when residents have access to
preventative medicine. Hypothetically, she
explains, someone can have bronchitis and
not seek treatment because they don’t have “It’s a total capitulation to insurance agen- ability just finished work on an economic
insurance. “They end up in the ER with pneu- cies,” said RN Judith Shindul-Rothschild, feasibility study of universal health care in
monia, which is more costly,” she said. “When Ph.D., who represented MNA on the legisla- Rhode Island commissioned by the Gen-
you start to put money into prevention—that’s tive advisory committee. “The final report eral Assembly. The report determined that
where long-lasting savings are.” pushed for incremental reform, which would health care coverage could be provided to
According to the consultants, Mathematica maintain administrative structures. They set it all residents and the state could save 3.6
Policy Research, Inc., a single-payer system up to keep insurance companies, which led to percent on health spending. Two universal Mark your calendar
will increase jobs, appeal to small businesses ridiculously low administrative savings.” health care plans were presented. In each,
that can’t afford to provide health care cover- O’Malley says LECG researchers failed to private insurance and out-of-pocket pay- Public hearing on single payer bill,
age, and protect residents who are uninsured capture those savings because of insurance ments were eliminated. And each was able S.686: Mass. Health Care Trust Fund
or underinsured and are going broke trying companies’ overhead. The report states that, to provide coverage to the underinsured and Wednesday, Oct. 8
to pay for health care. in Massachusetts, almost 40 cents of every the uninsured.
Philbrook serves on the Health Security dollar spent on health care goes to adminis- The findings suggested that reform is not Mass. Statehouse
Board, established by the legislature to trative costs. “In every other industrialized only necessary, feasible and cost-effective, but
study the feasibility of a single-payer plan. nation of the world, 90 to 95 percent of every
The board will make a report to the legislature health care dollar goes to health care,” said
this month and introduce a bill to keep the
committee together until 2004 so it can work
O’Malley. “In Massachusetts, it’s 40 percent
overhead and 60 percent going to health
Top 10 reasons why Massachusetts should
on a transition plan. “My guess is that we’ll care.” pass single payer legislation
have all details worked out by 2004, imple- While the report notes that health care
1. All piecemeal attempts to improve the health care system, while keeping it market-
mented by 2005 and, by 2006, a plan that will costs are becoming “prohibitive,” it fails to
based, ultimately fail.
cover everyone,” Philbrook said. detail the human and financial costs exacted
2. Repeated studies have shown that only a single payer system can ever assure truly
“We’re the only industrialized nation in on residents if the health care system is not
universal coverage.
the world that doesn’t cover everyone,” she reformed.
3. Single payer reform at the state level is the most likely path to universal coverage.
said. “Ethically, nurses are patients’ advo- “The single-payer coalition calls on the
4. Single payer is politically feasible. 80 percent of doctors, nurses, employers, hospital
cates. We’re not doing our job if people are legislature to look at the shocking administra-
managers, health plan managers, and the general public believe either that fundamental
not getting care.” tive cost and growing numbers of uninsured,
change is necessary or we need to completely rebuild the system.
then authorize the [health advisory] board to
5. Single payer provides a level playing field for all businesses and employers, and
Massachusetts reconvene and do work [LECG] should have
between businesses of the U.S. and other nations. It also allows workers to leave a job
The Massachusetts Legislature appro- done” says O’Malley. “MASS-CARE will
without losing their health insurance.
priated $250,000 to study “Feasibility of share several other reports with the state
6. We’d pay for health care only once, in the simplest fashion possible. Currently, we pay
Consolidated Health Care Financing and legislature showing how a true single-payer
for health care many times over: from our paychecks, premiums, price of goods and
Streamlined Health Care Delivery in Mas- plan works and pushing for legislation.
services, taxes, auto insurance, workers’ compensation, and out-of-pocket expenses.
sachusetts.” The report, recently released “No system will ever be perfect,” she says.
7. It’s good for society. Universal health care has a positive impact on individuals’ ability
by LECG consultants, has some advocates “But I know that is so far superior to any other
to learn and work.
of universal health care questioning the system. The baby boomers are about to hit
8. The quality of health care will be improved through provision of primary care to every-
report’s value. with a huge demand for care. From moral,
one, attention to public health, comprehensive planning, return of decision-making to
“It was very clear that they were to provide fiscal and professional perspective, this is
health professionals and patients, and public participation in health policy-making,
the legislature with a roadmap for universal something we absolutely have to do.”
including the protection of essential community hospitals.
health care and consolidated financing,” 9. We can afford it. When 95-99 percent of current health care spending goes to care, we
said Peggy O’Malley, RN, chairperson for Rhode Island
can cover everyone, provide a wider range of benefits than most people now receive,
MASS-CARE, the Massachusetts Campaign “Overall, I think what comes out is affected
reduce drug prices, greatly expand access to home care and long-term care, and elimi-
for Single-Payer Health Care, a coalition of 80 by what goes in. You don’t see a lot of savings
nate deductibles, co-payments and most out-of-pocket expenditures.
organizations, including the Massachusetts if you don’t look for them,” says Debra Soco-
10. It’s the right thing to do. It is intolerable that thousands go without care while we waste
Nurses Association (MNA). “They spent too lar, M.P.H., who directs the Health Reform
billions on unproductive private insurance and paper pushing. Single payer provides
much of their time and our money creating Program with Alan Sager, Ph.D., at the Boston
a world class health care system that affirms the worth and dignity of every human
three models. Two don’t meet the mandate University School of Public Health.
life.
and one isn’t really single-payer. Naturally, Socolar and Sager, known nationally for
Created by MASS-CARE, the Massachusetts Campaign for Single Payer Health Care
we’re very disappointed.” their work on health care access and afford-
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 3
President’s column
Making the case for safe staffing to the Health Care Committee
By Karen Higgins every system in his body. The patient is placed pick up on vital changes in a patient’s condi-
Taken from testimony before the Joint Commit- on a respirator and may have at least four tion could lead to “failure to rescue,” and a
tee on Health Care on June 18. to eight intravenous medication and fluid number of prominent studies have made a
I am here today as the president of the drips designed to maintain his blood pres- clear link between poor RN staffing and this
Massachusetts Nurses Association, an orga- sure to prevent organ failure. These require unfortunate outcome.
nization that represents more than 22,000 my constant monitoring and assessment and You also need to know that nurses are the
registered nurses and health professionals I’ll need to assess respiratory status continu- teachers of patients and families in the health
working in nearly every health care setting ously. At the same time, I will be monitoring care system. We are trained to communicate
in the commonwealth. the electrolytes in his blood every few hours, with patients so that they understand what
I am also here as a practicing staff nurse as a slight change can signal a life threatening is happening and what they will need to do
who has spent the last 25 of my 28 years work- complication. In this case, because of kidney to support their own recovery. We are trained
ing in the ICU at Boston Medical Center. failure caused by the infection, I will be per- to be a compassionate sounding board for the
I am here, joined by all these nurses, forming continuous dialysis on the patient. inevitable fears patients and their families will
consumers, doctors and advocates to testify All the time I will be monitoring his heart rate experience. This is not fluff and this is not a
in favor of House Bill 1282—a bill that we for any changes that may signal a heart attack luxury. If a nurse doesn’t have the time to
believe is crucial to protecting patients from due to his other organs being affected. I’m properly teach the patient how to clean and
cost-cutting measures and ensuring the safety prepared to intervene with emergency equip- protect their wound, or to manage their new
of patients in our hospitals, as well as for ment if necessary. While all this is going on, I’ll
addressing and ending the shortage of hos- have multiple conversations with physicians
pital bedside nurses in the commonwealth. about the changes in the patient’s condition
We are here because every day a patient in and will adjust treatments and medications
Massachusetts places his or her life in jeop- MNA president Karen Higgins testifies as required.
ardy as he or she is forced to share their nurse at the Joint Committee on Health Care’s I, and all nurses, am both legally and
with too many other patients. public hearing on H.1282. ethically responsible for the medications
It is my hope to provide the context for this and treatments I administer. If a medication
discussion by describing the role and function is ordered, I must know its proper dosage
of the registered nurse in the care of hospital- effects of treatments, acts instantly to inter- and side effects and I am legally obligated
ized patients. vene if there are life-threatening changes in to raise a question if I believe it is the wrong Stand Up For Safe Staffing
It is important to remember that the main a patient’s condition, or alerts physicians so drug or the wrong dose or if the medication is
reason patients are recovering in a hospital that they can act to protect their patients. contraindicated, because, owing to side effects
June 18
today is to receive around-the-clock care Registered nurses are highly specialized, or other concerns, the drug is not appropri-
from a registered nurse and that it is the just like physicians. There are nurses who ate. In this sense, nurses are the patient’s last medications, that patient is going to suffer
registered nurse who spends the most time specialize, as I do, in intensive care, or those line of defense in a system that is supposed an infection or a reaction that will land them
and has the greatest impact on the quality of who specialize in emergency care, maternity to protect them from potentially harmful or right back in the hospital.
patient care. care, oncology, pediatrics and psychiatric lethal human errors. Given this understanding of the role of
Because of managed care, patients in our nursing. Each area of practice deals with dif- A patient’s condition can change in an registered nurses, I’m sure you can begin to
hospitals are sicker than ever, and they stay ferent conditions, different types of patients, instant. A subtle change observed and acted understand that the most important compo-
for a much shorter time. This means that the different medications, treatments and medical upon can prevent a more serious downturn nent of nursing is time—time that a nurse
needs of patients are much greater, which specialties. in the patient’s condition. Every nurse in this has to use his or her educated mind, trained
means patients are in need of more nursing Registered nurses are constantly using room could tell you a story of how, while eyes and disciplined ears to monitor their
care than ever before. their knowledge of physical and social sci- caring for a patient, they noticed something patients. When you’re a patient, anything
Registered nurses are skilled professionals ences to monitor, assess and protect their wasn’t right; it could be in the patient’s skin that diminishes the time your nurse has to
whose educated minds, eyes and ears are a patients. For example, I was recently taking color, the tone or timber of their voice, the spend in your care, the more likely something
vital link for the physician. Registered nurses care of a patient who was brought into my size of their pupils, a slight variance in a bad will happen to you. It’s that simple. And
monitor and evaluate a patient’s condition intensive care unit with a serious infection lab value that made the nurse look deeper, the most important determinant of how much
before, during and after high tech medical who was suffering from a condition referred something that made them take action, an time your nurse will have to devote to your
procedures. It is the registered nurse who to as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. action that ended up preventing a catastro- care is the number of patients he or she is
adjusts medications, manages pain and side In this situation, I’m assessing the function of phe. Conversely, because we may have too assigned.
many other patients occupying our time, It has been said that if you don’t listen to
we may not be there to observe that change; nurses, you will never hear the patient. I am
we could miss that cue, which could trig- here, we are here, screaming at the top of
ger more serious complications. A four-day our lungs on behalf of those who suffer in
stay could turn into a two-week stay, or in silence—help us. Pass House Bill 1282. Safe
the worst case, the patient may never leave staffing saves lives. Thank you for your time
the hospital alive. This process of failing to and attentiveness.
Whidden Hospital nurse and MNA
member Joanne Bartoszewicz
explains the importance of the
safe staffing bill to a Channel 7
reporter.
Sen. Richard Moore, Rep. Peter Koutoujian, Health Care Committee Staff Director
Charlene Deloache, Rep. Christine Canavan, and Sen. Bruce Tarr listen to testimony
from MNA members. Nurses pack the room where the June 18 press conference was held.
Page 4 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
MNA on Beacon Hill
Legislative update ISSN 0163-0784 USPS 326-050
MNA fights to protect health care safety net President: Karen Higgins
By Charles Stefanini the State Senate million total for the pool. Vice President: Patrick Conroy
MNA Legislative Director earmarked $12 • The House then offered hospitals an Secretary: Sandy Eaton
Faced with a growing budget crisis expected million for school additional form of relief by endorsing Treasurer: Janet Gale
to reach $3 billion for the 2004 fiscal year that nursing services. a one-time infusion of $118 million to District Directors, Labor: District 1:
begins July 1, the Legislature has undertaken In addition, the improve Medicaid reimbursements. Patricia Healey, Irene Patch; District 2:
an unprecedented effort to draft and write Senate included By offering these new funds through Edith Harrigan, Mary Marengo; District
the next fiscal year’s state budget. This effort an outside section Medicaid, the House expected to 3: Stephanie Stevens, Tina Russell;
included a lengthy series of statewide public to the budget pro- attract federal matching funds, which District 4: Jeanine Hickey, vacant; Dis-
hearings held by the House of Representa- viding a Medicaid House leaders would use to preserve trict 5: Barbara Norton, vacant.
tives and Joint House and Senate Ways and reimbursement a prescription benefit for seniors.
Means Committee. The hearings provided program for school The Senate: Directors (At-Large/Labor): Sandy
a forum for review of Governor Romney’s nursing. • Increases available funding for pro- Ellis, Denise Garlick, Kate Maker,
budget proposal and a dialogue of ideas and The House Charles Stefanini viders to $560 million by maximizing Sharon McCollum, Beth Piknick,
alternatives to meet the fiscal crisis. and the Senate previously unused federal dollars Elizabeth Sparks, Jan Spicer.
During this process the MNA worked hard included versions of maintaining the Pre- • Creates a limited insurance program Directors (At-Large/General): Rick
to protect the health care safety net. Much scription Advantage program for 80,000 for the long-term unemployed who Lambos, Jim Moura, Margaret O’Malley,
of the public dialogue over the past several Massachusetts seniors. The MNA urged the now lack coverage due to recent Deb Rigiero, Jeannine Williams, Nora
months regarding the budget has centered on Legislature to maintain this successful pro- Medicaid cuts, reducing the current Watts, vacant.
maintaining “core and essential services.” The gram. Nurses on the front-line see first hand burden on the pool
MNA has strongly stated that health care is the ill effects of seniors who cannot afford • Fully funds free care payments for Labor Program Member: Beth Gray-
not only a core service; it is a safety net—a prescriptions. Implementing and maintaining community health centers at $28 Nix
matter of life and death for vulnerable chil- Prescription Advantage is the right choice for million Executive Director: Julie Pinkham
dren and seniors, as well as for mentally ill our seniors and our health care system. • Implements a “prospective payment” Managing Editor: David Schildmeier
and mentally retarded citizens. We must allocation method, which will pro- Editor: Jen Johnson
work towards maintaining programs that MassHealth/Medicaid vide hospitals with the advantage of Production Manager: Erin M. Servaes
foster prevention of illness and basic care to MassHealth/Medicaid faces greater knowing their liability to or from the Photographer: Rosemary Smith
our citizenry. If not, this will only result in cuts and this is after 50,000 residents were Pool at the beginning of each fiscal
people suffering more serious complications eliminated from the program on April 1. year Mission Statement: The Massachu-
that require more costly care. MassHealth provides health coverage to • Protects the “safety net hospitals” by setts Nurse will inform, educate and
As advocates for patients and quality health approximately one in six adults, and one ensuring that they receive payment meet member needs by providing timely
care, the MNA has been working on the fol- in four children in the commonwealth. This through alternative funding mecha- information on nursing and health care
lowing budget issues: includes health coverage for low-income nisms, where available issues facing the nurse in the Common-
children and adults, prenatal care, prescrip- • Maximizes federal revenue by bring- wealth of Massachusetts. Through the
Public health programs tion drugs, some dental care, and nursing ing in an additional $180 million in editorial voice of the newsletter, MNA
The MNA has long advocated for public home care. funds seeks to recognize the diversity of its
policy initiatives that promote education, pre- • MassHealth is the key to maintaining • Implements responsible manage- membership and celebrate the con-
vention and access in health care. An ounce a stable health care system ment reform initiatives, creating a tributions that members make to the
of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure. • MassHealth brings the state billions more efficient method of determin- nursing profession on the state, local
To that end, we have worked in coalitions of federal dollars that we can’t afford ing pool eligibility and national levels.
towards supporting adequate funding of to lose
Clara Barton Nursing Excellence Published nine times annually, in
important public health programs, includ- • MassHealth ensures that almost all January/February, March, April, May,
ing: children in Massachusetts have qual- The Senate budget includes the creation
June/July, August, September, October
• AIDS ity health care of the Clara Barton Nursing Excellence and
and November/December by the Mas-
• Breast cancer • MassHealth improves the health of Scholarship Program.
sachusetts Nurses Association, 340
• Colorectal cancer families and communities across the
Worcester State Hospital Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021.
• Hepatitis C commonwealth
• Rape crisis centers If we lose these services, we are guaranteed Earlier this year, Romney proposed the Subscription price: $20 per year
• Tobacco control to see an increase in emergency room visits closure of Worcester State Hospital. Worces- Foreign: $28 per year
In addition, the MNA has supported the and we are guaranteed to see an increase in ter State Hospital is a critical facility in our Single copy: $3.00
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) health care costs as people end up needing mental health service structure. After the
Periodical postage paid at Canton, MA
Program—a program that creates the coor- more expensive care because they lacked governor’s announcement, a “Coalition to
and additional mailing offices.
dinated, expert forensic care necessary to appropriate primary and preventive care. Save Worcester State Hospital” was formed
increase prosecution of sexual offenders and And yes—we will see people die. The Senate and the MNA worked to gain public support Deadline: Copy submitted for publica-
to deliver the highest level of care to sexual included language in its budget to provide to protect the hospital from closure. The tion consideration must be received at
assault victims who access hospital emergency coverage to this population. House budget includes language protecting MNA headquarters by the first day of
departments. The SANE Program is provid- Worcester State Hospital from closure. The the month prior to the month of publi-
ing services in each region of Massachusetts, Uncompensated care pool Senate includes a variation of the language. cation. All submissions are subject to
and the MNA worked in a coalition to level The MNA served on a recent special com- editing and none will be returned.
fund the program and include language in mission created by the Legislature to examine The Fernald Center
the Senate’s version of the budget to codify Governor Romney has proposed the clo- Postmaster: Send address corrections
the uncompensated care pool. The governor,
the program into law. sure of The Fernald Center in Waltham. The to Massachusetts Nurse, Massachu-
House and Senate all have proposed various
MNA opposes the proposal and has joined setts Nurses Association, 340 Turnpike
efforts to stabilize the pool.
School nursing, Prescription with parent groups to fight the closure. Street, Canton, MA 02021.
The House of Representatives:
Advantage program • Reduces by $57.5 million the assess- Both the House and Senate budget include www.massnurses.org
Romney eliminated the funding for school ments Romney’s budget would have language towards protecting Fernald from
nurses in his budget proposal. School nurses required hospitals to pay to fund the closure.
are a critical component of our front-line health free care pool. As the budget moves towards final passage,
care delivery system—in many cases serving • Under the House budget, hospitals the MNA will be working to ensure that the
as a child’s primary health care provider and health insurers would each pay public health safety net is maintained and that
and handling sensitive and complex health $157.5 million with the state contrib- health care is treated as a ‘core and essential’
issues. The House of Representatives and uting $30 million to achieve a $345 service.
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 5
An interview with state Rep. Vincent Pedone
The Massachusetss Nurse recently sat down tected and our resources are maximized. In in your work as a make our community a better place to live. I
with state Rep. Vincent Pedone from the 15th times like these, we also need to be diligent legislator? have had the pleasure of learning from great
Worcester district. Pedone is currently serving about providing the highest level of public Pedone: My civic leaders, which has helped me be able
his sixth term in the House of Representatives. safety and economic opportunity for our position on the to serve my community better. I stay in this
He is a lifelong resident of Worcester, an alum- citizens. Ways and Means profession because I love the people that elect
nus of St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury MassNURSE: How does your background Committee allows me and that I work for in Boston. I represent
and graduate, with honors, from Salem State help prepare you to be an effective state leg- me greater access a hardworking blue-collar district that I have
College. In addition to serving in the 101st islator? to the information, lived in my whole life. I am honored that they
Airborne Division of the U.S. Army, Pedone Pedone: I have been a legislator since I people and issues have sent me back to represent them for six
worked as a social worker for the Massachu- was 25, so I have been immersed in the job that are so central to terms.
setts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to for most of my adult life. My background is my job as a legisla- MassNURSE: What is your proudest suc-
Children before taking office. in social work, which I think equips me with tor. This committee cess as a state legislator?
Pedone’s priorities include health care, the skills and sensitivities to be an effective is considered the Pedone: I don’t have one particular suc-
job creation, education reform and funding public official. The issues and problems I deal most powerful Vincent Pedone cess of which I am most proud. It has been
for affordable housing. Pedone serves in with as a legislator are the same ones I would committee in the an honor to serve my district and the com-
the Ways and Means Committee, and was confront as a social worker, only on a different legislature, giving me greater leverage when monwealth for over 10 years. Some of the
recently appointed the vice chairman of the I am fighting for issues that are important to highlights over my tenure have been securing
Committee on Science and Technology. me and to those I represent. funding for the restoration of Union Station,
Pedone has been instrumental in an effort MassNURSE: What would you tell the the building of the Worcester Convention
to stop Governor Romney’s proposal to close nurses out there reading this column about Center, and legislation clearing the way to
Worcester State Hospital. His leadership on the importance of building a relationship with build our new vocational high school. Over
and commitment to this issue led to important their local legislators? the last decade, I have worked to ensure
language being included in the House budget Pedone: Building a strong relationship with funding for the Math and Science Acad-
to keep the hospital from closing. your state legislator is not only good for you, emy and School of Excellence at WPI and
MassNURSE: Congratulations on your but good for him/her as well. The importance the University of Massachusetts Medical
recent work to stop Romney’s plans to close scale. My mother and father both worked in of maintaining this relationship is critical to School; funding for our biotech companies;
Worcester State Hospital. the public sector, so I grew up realizing the address any issues that may arises in your and the legislation authorizing and funding
Pedone: Thank you very much. The closing immense value of being a public servant. neighborhood, your workplace, or with leg- the building of Worcester’s new courthouse. I
of Worcester State Hospital is a shortsighted MassNURSE: What are the main priorities islation that may affect you. Your legislator’s have been involved in the restoration of Lake
proposal by the administration that would of your legislative agenda for the upcoming assistance is only a phone call away. I can say Park, East Park and Green Hill Park. I enjoyed
jeopardize the well being of its patients and year? personally that it is very rewarding to know my battles with Governor Paul Cellucci over
undermine the hard work of its dedicated Pedone: As I said earlier, I am most con- the people behind an organization and to have bringing increased commuter rail service to
staff. I was fortunate to be working on the cerned with protecting my constituents and a strong relationship with them. Worcester. I was successful in securing rail
issue with a great group of people, includ- the citizens of the commonwealth during MassNURSE: What do you enjoy most service to our city and I am continuing to
ing MNA representatives and nurses from these trying fiscal times. I want to promote about your work as a state legislator? fight for increased service. Of course, I am
Worcester State Hospital. economic development, stimulate employ- Pedone: I would have to say the people I very proud of the work that I did in 1995
MassNURSE: What issues do you believe ment opportunities and ensure that workers’ work for and with in the Legislature is what and 1996 when then-Governor William Weld
will dominate this legislative session? rights are protected. I want to safeguard core makes my work as a state representative tried to close the Worcester State Hospital. We
Pedone: Given the difficult fiscal climate services, so that our most vulnerable popula- rewarding. For the most part, I work with an were able to beat back Weld’s attempts then,
right now, I think most key legislation will tions are not put at risk. incredibly talented group of colleagues who and I am confident that we will be able to do
center on budget issues. The Legislature MassNURSE: How does your position on are dedicated advocates and civic-minded the same with Romney’s attempt to close the
needs to ensure that core services are pro- the Ways and Means Committee assist you people. Our goals are all similar; we want to hospital this year.
…Rally
From Page 1 lications − the Journal of the American Medical tive director of the MNA. “When nurses of the poor staffing conditions. According
conducted between May 30 and June 8 by Association and The New England Journal of —all of whom are educators in our health to nurses who have already left the hospital
Opinion Dynamics Corporation, Inc., an Medicine − and by the Joint Commission on care system—don’t have enough time to bedside, the number one reason given was
independent research firm headquartered Hospital Accreditation supports our posi- teach diabetic patients how to manage their that they had too many patients to care for.
in Cambridge. Survey respondents were tion,” Higgins said. “The survey results we conditions, there is a greater likelihood that However, 65 percent of those who have left
randomly selected from the complete file of released are in line with these national studies. those patients will end up being readmitted the hospital bedside say they would be likely
the 92,000 nurses registered with the Mas- They underscore that RNs in Massachusetts for complications resulting from the fact or extremely likely to return if safe staffing
sachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. are forced to care for too many patients at the that they were not taught how to administer legislation was enacted.
Fully 68 percent of the respondents have no same time and that the safety of all patients is their insulin. Because we are all concerned Of the 600 nurses polled:
affiliation with MNA—the state’s largest seriously compromised as a result. with costs, let me point out that poor patient • An astounding 93 percent report
association of RNs, with 22,000 members. “These findings should be a wake-up call to outcomes like this cost the health care system being burned out by excessive
According to the research firm, the survey hospital administrators, a warning to patients billions of dollars.” patient loads
results can be assumed to be representative who seek care in our hospitals, and a call to The survey found that 66 percent of RNs • 65 percent agree that working con-
of the 92,000 nurses to within ± 4 percent at action for legislators, who have in their hands believe that hospital finances are not properly ditions in hospitals are “brutal” for
a 95 percent confidence interval. today the means to protect the public from spent on patient care; 55 percent believe that nurses
The release of the survey coincided with the serious risks posed by current hospital the overall quality of health care in Massachu- • 75 percent report that their manag-
the Joint Committee on Health Care’s public conditions,” Higgins concluded. setts has gotten worse over the last five years; ers schedule too few nurses for their
hearing on H.1282, the bill that would estab- In addition to the dangers of inadequate and 61 percent believe that in the next five shifts
lish RN-to-patient ratios in Massachusetts RN staffing, the study found that other vital years the overall quality of health care in the • 70 percent of nurses report being
hospitals. More than 500 nurses joined leaders aspects of patient care are also suffering. Nine state will become even more desperate. “floated” to assignments in other
from 60 health care and consumer advocacy out of 10 nurses report not having enough The survey not only underscores the danger areas of the hospital for which they
groups that have endorsed the legislation to time to comfort and assist patients and their posed by chronic understaffing in hospitals, lack the proper orientation or train-
show their support for the measure. The study families, 86 percent report not having enough but also provides solid and compelling evi- ing
complements Opinion Dynamics’ findings time to educate patients, and 81 percent of dence that poor staffing conditions created • 60 percent report that hospital admin-
earlier this year that 82 percent of registered nurses report that, because they have too and continue to exacerbate the shortage of istrators assign mandatory overtime
voters support legislation to regulate RN-to- many patients to care for, their patients have nurses in the state. instead of staffing properly
patient ratios and that 75 percent are willing to wait for medications or treatments. While national surveys of nurses show • 58 percent report that hospital
to pay more for their health care in order to “A medication delay can result not only that one in five nurses plan to leave the managers assign nursing duties to
guarantee their safety as patients. in unnecessary pain and suffering, it can profession in the next five years, fully 55 non-nurses instead of hiring RNs
“The MNA has long advocated for safe lead to a downturn in a patient’s condition percent of nurses providing hospital care • An overwhelming 86 percent support
RN-to-patient ratios. Research conducted by that causes complications or lengthens that in Massachusetts have considered leaving legislation to regulate RN-to-patient
the country’s most prestigious medical pub- patient’s stay,” noted Julie Pinkham, execu- direct patient care at the bedside because ratios in hospitals
Page 6 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
MNA Convention 2003
100 Years of Caring for the Commonwealth
October 15, 16 & 17, 2003
Mechanics Hall
321 Main Street, Worcester, Mass.
Convention schedule Featured speakers
All events are being held at Mechanics Hall in Worcester except where noted. Anita Hill, Attorney
“Speaking Truth to Power: Social change and Workplace Realities”
Wednesday, October 15 Thursday • 9:30–10:30 a.m.
6:00–7:00 p.m. Cash Bar for Awards Banquet, Crowne Plaza Worcester Anita Hill is an attorney, legal professor and human rights
7:00 p.m. MNA Awards Banquet activist. Anita reflects on the events before, during and after
the Clarence Thomas hearings and states, “I did not choose
Thursday, October 16 the issue of sexual harassment, it chose me.” Hill, who has
7:30 a.m. Registration and Continental Breakfast; Exhibits/Silent conducted research examining recent social and legal gains in
Auction open today’s workplace, will share processes that can not only reduce
8:30–9:30 a.m. A Primer for Nurses: “Worcester County’s Role in the conflict but that can enhance the workplace. Anita Hill
Advancement of Women and Nursing” Paul McCarthy, President, Collective Bargaining Associates
9:30–10:30 a.m. Keynote Address: “Speaking Truth to Power: Social Change “Capturing Power in the Health Care Arena”
and Workplace Realities,” featuring Anita Hill Thursday • 10:45 a.m.–Noon
10:30–10:45 a.m. Coffee Break Paul McCarthy is a labor union specialist who works closely
with union officials to solve organizational problems and build
10:45–12:00 p.m. Plenary Session: “Capturing Power in the Health Care
union power and effectiveness. His motivational presentation
Arena,” featuring Paul McCarthy
will address both the capability and responsibility of organized
12:00–2:00 p.m. MNA District 5 Annual Meeting Luncheon held at Crowne nurses to create, apply and capture power in the health care
Plaza Worcester arena. The focus will be on the long overdue “coming of age” of
12:00–2:00 p.m. Luncheon for MNA convention attendees; Exhibits/Silent nurses’ unions and their becoming influential and active players Paul McCarthy
Auction open in the development of health care policy in the U.S.
12:30–2:00 p.m. Unit 7 Business Meeting Larry Tye, Author and former Boston Globe reporter
2:00 p.m. Exhibits/Silent Auction close “The Ten Commandments of Dealing with the Ungodly Press”
Friday • 10:45 a.m.–Noon
2:00–6:00 p.m. MNA Business Meeting
Larry Tye is a former Boston Globe medical reporter and cur-
7:30 p.m. Improv Boston Dinner Theater held at Crowne Plaza
rently directs the Health Coverage Fellowship, which provides
Worcester. A very limited number of tickets will be sold at
education and intensive training to 10 medical journalists from
the door on a first-come, first-serve basis. We encourage
a variety of media. He has won a series of national reporting
purchasing advanced tickets. See registration form for
awards, is the author of “The Father of Spin” and is currently
details. Tickets $55 in advance; $65 at the door. Proceeds
completing a new book. His topic will focus on how to get your
will benefit NursePLAN
message to the public and dealing with a persistent press. Larry Tye
Friday, October 17
7:30 a.m. Registration; Silent Auction Hotel Information
8:00-9:30 a.m. MNA NursePLAN full breakfast and meeting for all MNA The MNA Convention 2003 is being hosted at The Crowne Plaza Worcester. The
Crowne Plaza is offering a special convention room rate of $99/night for single, dou-
members
ble or triple occupancy. (12.45% MA occupancy tax additional.) For reservations call
9:30–10:30 a.m. MNA 100th Birthday Celebration, MNA District 2 The Crowne Plaza at 1-800-628-4240. Rooms at this rate available until 9/24/03.
10:30–10:45 a.m. Coffee Break Refund Policy
10:45–2:00 p.m. Plenary Session: “The Ten Commandments of Dealing with Requests for refunds will be accepted in writing until October 3, 2003. A $25 ad-
the Ungodly Press,” featuring Larry Tye ministration fee will be deducted from each registration refund. No refunds will be
granted after October 3, 2003. On-site registration is contingent upon space.
12:00–2:00 p.m. Luncheon with live auction
2:00–3:30 p.m. Plenary Session: speaker to be announced Chemical Sensitivity
Attendees are requested to avoid wearing scented personal products when at-
tending this program/meeting. Scents may trigger responses in those with chemi-
cal sensitivity.
Contact Hours
Continuing nursing education contact hours will be awarded by the Massachusetts
Nurses Association which is accredited as a provider of continuing nursing education
MNA Business Meeting by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
October 16, 2 p.m. Questions
The MNA business meeting is open and free to all MNA mem- Call MNA’s department of nursing at 1-800-882-2056, x 727.
bers, regardless of whether you register for Convention.
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 7
MNA Convention 2003 Safe Staffing Saves Lives
Registration Form Pass H.1282
Understaffing of registered nurses is dangerous to patients.
Mistakes, errors and complications become more likely when
Name ________________________________________________________________ nurses are asked to take care of too many patients at once.
Address ______________________________________________________________ A study of six million patients reported in the New England
Journal of Medicine show that patients without adequate
City/State/Zip _________________________________________________________ nursing attention are more likely to die or suffer serious
complications: the more nurses per patient the better the
Telephone: Day ________________________________________________________ medical outcomes.
Evening_____________________________________________________ The Journal of the American Medical Association reported
that in a study of 232,000 surgical patients the higher the
I am a(n): ❏ MNA Member
patient-to-nurse ratio, the more likely there will be a death or
❏ *Full-time Student/Unemployed/Retired serious complication. Each additional patient above four that
❏ Non-Member a nurse cared for produced a 7 percent increase in mortality.
* (Includes full time students [minimum 12 credits], unemployed, If a nurse is caring for eight patients instead of four, there is a
retired and student nurse association members.) 31 percent increase in mortality.
❏ Check here if you require vegetarian meals
The fact that nurses are burned out from high patient
❏ Check here if you require special assistance during convention loads is causing them to leave the profession. One in three
and please call the MNA at 800-882-2056, x727 registered nurses under the age of 30 say they are planning
to leave nursing within the next year.
3 Convention Packages: Thursday & Friday, October 16 & 17
To Preserve Quality Care and Protect Patient Safety
Full Two-Day Convention Package — Thursday and Friday:
Includes ALL events on Thursday (excluding Improv Boston) and Friday.
join a growing list of organizations that support H.1282
MNA Members $75 All Others $100 Reduced Members* $70 $ Ad Hoc Committee to Defend Health Care Mass. Association of Older Americans
AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts Mass. Association of Public Health Nurses
Please register below if you plan to attend these Thursday events: AIDS Care Project Mass. Brain Injury Association
❑ Unit 7 Business Meeting • 8:30 am n/c Alzheimer’s Association, Mass. Chapter Mass. Breast Cancer Coalition
❑ District 5 Annual Meeting/Luncheon • 12:30 pm n/c American Cancer Society Mass. Coalition of Nurse Practitioners
American Diabetes Association of Greater Mass. Federation of Teachers
Thursday-Only Package:
Boston Mass. Human Services Coalition
Includes ALL events on Thursday: keynote, plenary session, all meals, exhibits,
auction (excluding Improv Boston Dinner Theater). American Heart Association Mass. Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy
American Lung Association of Greater Coalition
MNA Members $35 All Others $45 Reduced Members* $30 $
Norfolk County Massachusetts Nurses Association
Friday-Only Package: American Lung Association of Mass. Mass. School Nurse Organization
Includes ALL events on Friday: keynote, two plenary sessions, American Psychiatric Nurses Mass. Senior Action Council
NursePLAN Breakfast, all meals, exhibits, auction. Association—New England Chapter Mass. Society of Eye Physicians and
MNA Members $40 All Others $50 Reduced Members* $35 $ Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association Surgeons
Arise for Social Justice Sister Rosellen Gallogly of Market
Boston AIDS Consortium Ministries, Inc.
Optional Ticketed Events Boston Health Care for the Homeless Mass NOW (National Organization for
Program Women)
Awards Banquet • Wednesday, October 15, 7:00pm • $40 $
Boston Women’s Commission Massachusetts Spina Bifida Association
Improv Boston Dinner • Thursday, October 16, 7:30pm Cambridge Women’s Commission MASSPIRG
Theater Advance tickets • $55 $ Cape Organization for Rights of the Mental Health Association, Inc.
(All proceeds from this event benefit NursePLAN) Disabled MetroWest AIDS Program
Family Economic Initiative MetroWest Latin American Center
Total Convention Fees $ Gay and Lesbian Advocates and National Association of Social Workers
Defenders - Massachusetts Chapter
Payment
Please mail this completed form with check made payable to MNA to: Massachusetts Greater Boston Diabetes Society National Kidney Foundation of Mass., RI,
Nurses Association, 340 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021. Tel. 800-882-2056, x727. Health Care for All NH, Vermont, Inc.
Registration forms postmarked prior to October 3, 2003 will be entered in a drawing Independent Living Center of North Shore Neighbor-to-Neighbor
to win a free convention registration. and Cape Ann, Inc. New England Coalition for Cancer
Payment may also be made by VISA or MasterCard. Jobs with Justice Survivorship
Account # _______________________________________________________________ Jonathan M. Cole Mental Health New England Patients Rights Group, Inc.
Consumer Resource Center Search For A Cure
Exp. Date: ______________________________________________________________
Latin American Health Institute The Abortion Access Project
Fax credit card registrations to: 781-821-4445. League of Women Voters of The Consortium for Psychotherapy
Massachusetts The Episcopal Diocese of Western Mass.
For Office Use Only: Lynn Health Task Force Victory Programs, Boston
Charge Code: ________ Amt: ________ Date: ________ Ck#: ________ Ck. Date: ________ Init: ________ V/MC: ____________________
Mass. Asian AIDS Prevention Project Vineyard Health Care Access Program
Mass. Association of Nurse Anesthetists
Page 8 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
So you think it’s safe at work? Notes from the Congress on Health and Safety
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS): a guide for nurses
By Betty Sparks, RN yourself and others. standard precautions (e.g., hand sible, adult patients should take their
Task Force on Emergency Preparedness and 1. Suspected SARS patients presenting washing), contact precautions (e.g., own oral electronic temperature and
David A. Denneno, RN, MSN to healthcare facilities and doctors’ use of gown and gloves) and airborne report it to the nurse.
Health & Safety Congress, Workplace Violence offices who require assessment for precautions (e.g., N-95 respirator and 9. Disinfectants such as fresh bleach solu-
Taskforce SARS should be diverted by triage eye protection). Removal of protective tion (1/100) or hospital recommended
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome or staff to a separate area to minimize equipment should be done by taking cleaning agents should be widely
(SARS) is a disease caused by a corona virus transmission to others. These patients off gloves first, then mask, goggles and available. Stethoscopes, scissors and
that presents with symptoms similar to the should immediately be given a surgi- gown. Immediately wash hands with other equipment have the potential to
common cold. The incubation period is two to cal mask and should be instructed to soap and water or use an alcohol based spread infection and must be properly
ten days from the time of exposure. Suspected wear a surgical mask at all times. hand washing solution. disinfected. Linen should be rolled up
cases could present with: 2. The medical personnel should apply 6. Limit the number of staff members and not shaken. Place used linen in a
Measured body temperature greater the surgical mask to the patient, pref- who are in contact with the patient. All biohazard bag before sending to the
than100.4° F erably one that filters expired air. All non-essential staff, including students, laundry.
Headache, body aches healthcare personnel should wear N- should not be allowed in the unit. 10. Visitors, if allowed by the healthcare
Clinical findings of respiratory ill- 95 respirators that have been properly 7. Staff should stay a minimum of 6½-feet facility, should be kept to a mini-
ness (e.g. cough, shortness of breath, fit tested in advance. If N-95 respira- away from the patient whenever pos- mum. They should be provided with
difficulty breathing, hypoxia or tors are not available, surgical masks sible, and avoid exposure to droplets if personal protective equipment and
radiological findings of pneumonia should be worn by personnel. close to the patient. Note: the virus has supervised.
or acute respiratory distress syn- 3. Patients presenting with probable been found in stool, urine and sputum Excerpted in part from U.S. Department of
drome) SARS should be moved and accom- for as long as 21 days after onset of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease
Rales and rhonchi can be heard, modated in: symptoms. Control and Prevention—SARS Guidelines,
oxygen saturation less than 95 per- A negative pressure room with 8. Tympanic temperature probes should World Health Organization SARS Guidelines
cent on room air the door closed be used where possible and, if not pos- and the Ontario SARS Guidelines.
and A single room with their own
Travel within 10 days of onset of bathroom
symptoms to an area with docu- A private exam room (turn off air Occupational Safety and Health
mented or suspected community conditioning and open window if
transmission of SARS including
Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Viet-
independent air supply is unfea-
sible)
Department welcomes new member
As the MNA continues to be a leader in the expertise,” said Dorothy McCabe, director
nam, Thailand, Slovenia, Indonesia, 4. Contact your facility’s infection-
areas of safe-staffing legislation and univer- of the department of nursing and career
Philippines and Toronto, Canada control personnel and initiate SARS
sal health care, the organization’s health and services. “She’ll be an invaluable resource to
or policies and procedures as written by
safety program in the department of nurs- our members, our staff and state’s healthcare
Close contact within 10 days of onset your healthcare facility. Unprotected
ing had its own leadership announcement to community.”
of symptoms with either a person exposures should be reported imme-
make recently: thanks to the hard work and Prior to joining the MNA, Pontus served
with a respiratory illness who trav- diately and proper documentation
foresight of MNA members, Massachusetts as a loss-prevention consultant for Beacon
eled to a SARS area or a person completed.
is now the only state Mutual Insurance Company in Warwick, R.I.
known to be a suspect SARS case 5. A member of the staff must be iden-
in the country to While there, she developed and implemented
tified as the primary care provider,
Suspect a SARS patient? have two certified health and safety initiatives for municipalities,
preferably the staff member that
occupational health financial institutions, manufacturing facilities
What should nurses do if a suspected SARS initiated contact with the patient
nurse specialists and hospitals, as well as identified hazards
patient presents to triage or the office? Follow upon their arrival to the facility. The
(COHN-S) working and recommended control measures. She also
these 10 steps to help you limit exposure to designated staff member will use
on behalf of its nurse worked as the occupational health nurse man-
members. ager for the Rhode Island-based B.A. Ballou
The milestone was Company, Inc. where she was responsible
marked by the arrival for assessing and treating occupational and
of Christine Pontus, non-occupational illnesses/injuries, as well
RN and COHN-S, to as creating health promotion, risk reduction
Christine Pontus the MNA’s nursing and wellness programs. Other areas of her
department. Pontus, expertise include OSHA regulations, workers’
who brings with her more than 25 years of compensation, claims and case management
nursing experience, joins the organization as involving employee negotiations, insurance
an associate director and will be working with policy reviews and financial feasibility stud-
members to help them find solutions to their ies.
health and safety questions/concerns. Pontus In addition to her efforts in the occupa-
will also assist in organizing and leading the tional health field, Pontus has worked as
MNA’s numerous education and prevention supervisor and staff nurse through Medical
programs. She will work with Evie Bain, Personnel Pool in Providence and as a charge
associate director/coordinator of health and nurse at Waterman Heights Nursing Home
safety; the Congress on Health and Safety; in Smithfield, RI. She holds both a B.S.N.
the Workplace Violence Task Force and the and an M.S. in health service administration
Emergency Preparedness Task Force. from Salve Regina University and is certified
“Christine comes to the MNA with a at the master’s level as a health care safety
tremendous background and incredible professional.
Members of the Congress on Health and Safety and the Workplace Violence Task Force
Participants needed for study on multiple chemical sensitivities
held a joint meeting on April 9 at MNA headquarters. Of interest to both groups was the Dr. Pam Gibson of James Madison University is looking for people who have multiple
MNA position statement on workplace violence being drafted by the task force and the chemical sensitivities and who have worked outside of the home to participate in a study on
issues of SARS and smallpox being addressed by the congress. Members who attended work accommodation and community integration. The results will be delivered at the 2003
the meeting are pictured above with a visiting nurse scholar from Japan, Saeko Uno, Chemical Injury Conference, and it is hoped that the research will contribute to an under-
who attended the meeting and provided input on workplace violence issues for nurses standing of access problems for people with multiple chemical sensitivities.
in her country. From left: Janice Homer, Rosemary O’Brien, Marcia Robertson, Uno If you are willing to participate, please contact Dr. Pam Gibson at 540-568-6195 or via e-mail
Saeko, Kate Opanasets, Susan Vickory, Janet Butler, Noreen Hogan, MNA staff member at gibsonpr@jmu.edu. Both hard copies and electronic copies of the survey are available, so
Evie Bain, Mary Bellistri, Kathy McDonald, Liz O’Connor and Harumi Mihara. please specify how you would prefer to receive your version.
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 9
Chemical sensitivity program held at The Fernald Center
In celebration of National Nurses Week, or neurological symptoms develop in those prevent people from
The Fernald Center in Waltham hosted an individuals who are susceptible, and these developing multiple
educational program for nurses dedicated events may lead to a prolonged illness. chemical sensitivi-
to the topic of multiple chemical sensitivities. Triggering—another step in the progression ties, as well as how
The program was also used as a platform to of multiple chemical sensitivities—occurs to best accommo-
announce that Gov. Mitt Romney had signed when those who are sensitized are exposed date those who have
a document proclaiming May 11 through 17 as to smaller and smaller doses of the same or already developed
MCS Awareness Week in Massachusetts. chemically-related substances. Once sensiti- this life-altering
The educational program, which was held zation occurs symptoms appear quickly, or disorder. The steps
on May 8, was led by Jean Lemieux, presi- often instantly, and can have consequences include: elimination
dent of the Massachusetts Association of the ranging from skin rashes to wheezing and/or of toxic environ-
Chemically Injured, and Evie Bain, MNA anaphylaxis (shock that can lead to death). mental cleaning and
health and safety specialist. In the second portion of the program, Bain disinfecting chemi-
During the program, Lemieux described helped to identify the products and sub- cals; replacing those Participants from the MCS educational program at The Fernald
and explained the steps in the progression stances in a health care worker’s environment products with safer Center hold the proclamation that declares May 11 through 17 to
of the disorder, including those of induction that can cause multiple chemical sensitivi- versions; and adher- be MCS Awareness Week From left, Marie Breneos, Sosamma
and triggering. ties. Many chemicals such as formaldehyde ence to the required Thampi, Lizzy Abraham, Judith Manning, Noreen Eagan, Evie Bain
Induction is the continual exposure (used in the OR), glutaraldehyde (found containment of con- and Jean Lemieux, president of the Massachusetts Association
to a known sensitizer such as phenol, where instruments are left to soak, in phenol struction projects in of the Chemically Injured.
gluutaraldenyde or natural rubber latex, compounds and in many disinfectants), guar- occupied buildings.
or other unknown chemicals. Sensitization ternary ammonium (found in environmental Eliminating natural rubber latex gloves and tiple chemical sensitivities program or to
can also occur after a single large exposure cleaning chemicals), and natural rubber latex substituting non-latex synthetic gloves was arrange for a presentation of this program at
from a spill/release of a chemical or from have all been linked to the development of also discussed as a way to provide a safer your facility, contact Evie Bain at 781-830-5776
exposure to the aerosolizing of construction multiple chemical sensitivities. work environment. or via e-mail at ebain@mnarn.org.
materials. Respiratory, gastrointestinal and/ Bain also outlined steps that can be taken to For more information on the MNA’s mul-
Unit 7 and District 2 participate in Applying OSHA to Health Care Settings
Several MNA members from Unit 7 and Dis- Healthcare and Social Service Settings. Judith Kosnoski, Carol
trict 2 recently attended sessions on Applying Unit 7 members who participated include Krumsiek, Rosemarie
OSHA to Health Care Settings. Participants Steve Robins, Neville Francis, Pat O’Neill, Erlichman, Elizabeth
learned about OSHA resources, requirements Sandra Brown, Jean Cook, Marilyn Crawford, George, Donna Kelly-
for a safe and healthy workplace, and how Mike D’Intinosanto, William Fyfe, and Cecil Williams, Douglas
to address concerns about unsafe working Pryce. Maxine Garbo with the Massachusetts Koziol, Elsie Maran-
conditions with employers. Department of Occupational Safety and mem- goly, Amminikutty
bers of the MNA staff also attended. Mathew, Ann Moli-
Unit 7 nari, and Diane
In addition to attending its state council District 2 Pollier.
meeting on April 9 at Indian Meadows in The Best Western Hotel and Conference This free program
Westboro, Unit 7 members also participated Center in Marlboro was the setting for Dis- is supported by a
in the OSHA-focused program. Rosemary trict 2’s May 14 session of Applying OSHA to grant from the Massa-
O’Brien, chairperson of the MNA Workplace Health Care Settings. Participants included: chusetts Department
Violence Task Force, presented the module on Cheryl Brosnihan, Lynda Colaianni, Mary of Industrial Acci- District 2 participants in Applying OSHA in Health Care Settings.
OSHA Guidelines for Preventing Violence in Ellen Stott, Maureen Clark, Barbara Dziejma, dents.
Health & Safety Notes
New program seeks to reduce hospital injuries Similarly, gone are the days when the needle-stick injury that the condition must arise during the course of employ-
OSHA has initiated a pilot ergonomics initiative which would be attributed to “carelessness, inattention or poor ment and require treatment beyond first aid. Each of these
combines the benefits of using establishment-specific illness/ technique” or the when back injury would be blamed on factors is met in the diagnosis and treatment of MRSA among
injury data for the OSHA Data Initiative with the flexibility “poor body mechanics or not waiting for help.” The prac- healthcare workers.
and knowledge of local industry hazards and illness/injury tice of “behavioral safety,” which often leads to blaming the
victim for the injuries, is being replaced. Now, equipment New online resource for occupational safety
experience. Specifically, the New England regional office of
OSHA implemented a local emphasis program for hospitals, specifically designed to reduce physical stress on the worker Health Care Without Harm—an organization that educates
including general medical, surgical and psychiatric hospi- is being introduced into hospitals and nursing homes across health care workers about occupational and environmental
tals. the country. health and safety risks—is working to provide medical profes-
The initial local program began March 13 and included an sionals with constructive ways to minimize these dangers.
audience of more than 100 people. Participants learned that
MRSA is a recordable occupational illness HCWH recently added a new section to its Web site that
OSHA will use a four-pronged approach in its efforts, includ- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides visitors with important health and safety resources.
ing the use of recently stated that Methycillin Resistant Staphlococcus To access HCWH’s resources, visit www.noharm.org/tools/
industry and task- Aureus is a recordable occupational illness. Nurses and other workersafety#chem
specific guidelines health care workers who test positive for MRSA in infection- In addition, HCWH holds monthly conference calls to dis-
(for injury preven- control investigations should be sure that the facility records cuss health and safety issues affecting nurses. To participate
tion), enforcement, the illness on the OSHA 300 log of injuries and illnesses. in these calls, contact Tiffany Skogstrom at 617-524-8778 or
outreach and assis- In a recent discussion with an OSHA compliance officer, via e-mail at skogstrom@earthlink.net.
tance (employers it was confirmed that a positive culture of MRSA in a health
care worker requiring medical treatment is, in fact, a work- Members should participate in internal activities
may ask for assistance to implement change), and advancing
research. The main focus of OSHA’s local program will be on related illness and should be recorded in the facility’s OSHA OSHA compliance inspectors who visit your hospital will
reducing injuries to patients/professionals during equipment log. Affirmative MRSA tests should also be reported to the be asking to speak to employees or employee representatives.
handling, as well as injuries related to sharps and hollow- employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier. As an MNA member you should not be afraid to speak with
bore needles. Most nurses and health care workers who test positive for an OSHA inspector. In fact, you should be encouraged to do
Initiatives and designs that are already being utilized in MRSA do not experience symptoms, yet they are treated with so. A direct conversation with employees assists OSHA com-
other industries to prevent injuries to workers will soon be antibiotics because they may be a vehicle for transmission of pliance inspectors in identifying working conditions which
adapted for use in health care settings under the local pro- the bacteria to susceptible patients. If left untreated though, contribute to employee illness and injury.
gram. For example: You can’t lift 180 pounds at UPS anymore MRSA could also pose problems for healthcare workers at MNA members are entitled to participate in the opening
and, soon, you won’t be expected to lift 180 pounds in the some time in the future. conference, the inspection tour and the closing conference.
healthcare industry either. The requirement for identifying an occupational illness is Employees in non-union facilities also have this right.
Page 10 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
Two MNA bargaining units named best nursing team of ‘03 by Advance for Nurses magazine
MNA nurses at Merrimack Valley Hospital state’s current financial crisis and Governor of students that earned it this wonderful
and school nurses working for the Pittsfield Romney’s proposed cuts to school nursing award.”
Public Health Department had special reason programs. School nurses provide a valuable social
to celebrate during National Nurses’ Week in “This 14-nurse team cares for more than and health care safety net, particularly
May. Advance for Nurses magazine, the lead- 8,000 Pittsfield students on a daily basis,” said during tough economic times, and they are
ing professional publication for the industry, Katie Wiater, RN, CSN, who submitted the often the primary health care resource for
named both the hospital emergency-room application that earned the team its recogni- poor or uninsured children. School nurses
nurses and the Pittsfield school nurses as tion. “We do everything: from administering are also required to conduct annual postural,
two of this year’s best nursing teams. psychotropic drugs and teaching proper hearing and vision-screening tests on all stu-
In order to be considered for the award, inhaler use, to responding to emergencies dents and monitor compliance with school
teams had to have a proven track record of in the gymnasium and administering first immunization regulations. In addition, they
excelling in areas such as clinical outcomes, aid. The school nurse is the bottom line in often provide health education to students
adaptability, teamwork, community outreach why Advance magazine honored our emer- healthcare.” by teaching them about healthy lifestyles and
and knowledge. gency department.” “This group of nurses goes above and illness management.
The nurse responsible for nominating the beyond the call of duty because they genu- Advance for Nurses magazine is distributed
Merrimack Valley Hospital ER team, Carlos D. Flores, APRN, BC, CEN inely love what they do,” Wiater said. “It to 107,000 nurses throughout New England
Meeting all the aforementioned criteria, and an MNA member, shared the same sen- was the team’s unselfish desire to serve and and it received more than 300 applicants for
and earning the first-place title as result, timents as Hickey when he submitted the protect the physical and emotional health this year’s awards.
was the nursing team in MVH’s emergency award application. According to Advance
department. The achievement was recognized magazine, Flores said that the nursing team
and hailed as a great honor for the entire nurs- became a rock throughout its transition, Private sector bargaining unit at UMass/Memorial
and during its purchase by Essent Health-
ing staff—particularly given the fact that the
care—which allowed the hospital to remain
– University Campus ratifies agreement
acute care facility, formerly Hale Hospital,
open under the new Merrimack Valley Hos- RNs in the private sector bargaining unit at UMass/Memorial – University Campus
was slated for closure just 2½ years ago.
pital name—the nursing team maintained an ratified a two-year agreement on April 30. The agreement is for the period April 2, 2002
“The nurses really pulled together when
impressively low rate of turnover. “Collabora- to March 30, 2004, and it makes the RNs the highest paid in the Worcester area. The
it was announced that Hale would close its
tion is key in nursing,” Flores told Advance, agreement grants the RNs three across-the-board increases and two new steps for a total
doors,” said Jeanine Hickey, chairperson of
“and the spirit of sharing among the ED team increase of 19.6 percent over two years. The wage scale that takes effect in the last year
the hospital’s bargaining unit. “Nurses from
is a constant source of strength.” of the contract will range from $21.95 to $43.47.
all departments, as well as physicians, clini-
The agreement also allows for the creation of a staffing board, which will comprise
cians and other employees, worked together
to keep the hospital open—and we protected Pittsfield school nurses three members of management and three bargaining-unit members. The staffing board
Nurses with the Pittsfield Public Health will be responsible for reviewing current staffing, as well as making staffing recommen-
nurses’ rights while doing so. Our MNA
Department earned fourth place in the dations for each unit. These recommendations will be posted in units so that all RNs can
nurses were nothing short of courageous
magazine’s search for the best nursing teams confirm that staffing is in line with recommendations. The agreement also ensures that
and dedicated when they faced that chal-
of 2003, and the award was seen as a par- RNs will have the right to grieve any failure to provide appropriate resources, including
lenge, and they were able to win the fight as
ticular success by MNA members given the supplies and equipment.
a result. That is just one of the many reasons
Notice to members and non-members regarding MNA agency fee status
This notice contains important information an agreement with a labor organiza- she must do so within thirty days of receipt fication number
relating to your membership or agency fee tion … to require as a condition of of this notice. Receipt shall be presumed to • Objections must also be signed by the
status. Please read it carefully. employment membership therein on have occurred no later than three days after objector
Section 7 of the National Labor Relations or after the thirtieth day following the notice is mailed to the employee’s address Objections will be processed as they are
Act gives employees these rights: the beginning of such employment or as shown in MNA’s records. received. All non-members who file a valid
• To organize the effective date of such agreement, Employees who newly become subject to objection shall receive a detailed report con-
• To form, join or assist any union whichever is the later. If such labor a contractual union security clause after Sep- taining an accounting and explanation of the
• To bargain collectively through rep- organization is the representative of tember 1, or who otherwise do not receive this agency fee. Depending on available informa-
resentatives of their choice the employees as provided in Sec- notice, must file any objection within thirty tion, the accounting and explanation may use
• To act together for other mutual aid tion 9(a), in the appropriate collective days after receipt of notice of their rights. the previous year’s information.
or protection bargaining unit covered by such agree- MNA members are responsible for full 3. How to challenge MNA’s accounting
• To choose not to engage in any of ment when made… membership dues and may not object under If a non-member is not satisfied that the
these protected activities Under Section 8(a)(3), payment of member- this procedure. MNA members who resign agency fee is solely for chargeable activities,
You have the right under Section 7 to decide ship dues or an agency fee can lawfully be their membership after September 1 must he or she may file a challenge to MNA’s
for yourself whether to be a member of MNA. made a condition of your employment under object, if at all, within 30 days of the post- accounting. Such a challenge must be filed
If you choose not to be a member, you may a “union security” clause. If you fail to make mark or receipt by MNA of their individual within thirty days of receipt of MNA’s
still be required to pay an agency fee to cover such payment, MNA may lawfully require resignation, whichever is earlier. accounting. Receipt shall be presumed to
the cost of MNA’s efforts on your behalf. If your employer to terminate you. Objections must be renewed each year by have occurred no later than three days after
you choose to pay an agency fee rather than This year, the agency fee payable by non- filing an objection during the appropriate the notice is mailed to the employee’s address
membership dues, you are not entitled to members is 97 percent of the regular MNA period. The same procedure applies to initial as shown in MNA’s records.
attend union meetings; you cannot vote on membership dues for chargeable expendi- objections and to renewed objections. Challenges must be specific, and must
ratification of contracts or other agreements tures. Non-members are not charged for 2. How to object be made in writing. Challenges must be
between the employer and the union; you will expenses, if any, which are paid from dues Objections must be received at the follow- received by MNA at the same address listed
not have a voice in union elections or other which support or contribute to political orga- ing address within the thirty-day period set above in section 2 within the 30-day period
internal affairs of the union and you will not nizations or candidates; voter registration or forth above: to be valid. Challenges not sent or delivered
enjoy “members only” benefits. get-out-the-vote campaigns; support for ideo- Massachusetts Nurses Association to that address are void.
Section 8(a)(3) of the National Labor Rela- logical causes not germane to the collective Fee Objections Valid challenges, if any, will be submitted
tions Act provides, in pertinent part: bargaining work of the union; and certain 340 Turnpike Street jointly to an impartial arbitrator appointed by
It shall be an unfair labor practice for an lobbying efforts. MNA has established the Canton, MA 02021 the American Arbitration Association. MNA
employer – following procedure for non-members who Objections not sent or delivered to the will bear the cost of such a consolidated arbi-
(3) by discrimination in regard to hire or wish to exercise their right to object to the above address are void. tration; challengers are responsible for their
tenure of employment or any term or accounting of chargeable expenditures: To be valid, objections must contain the other costs, such as their travel expenses, lost
condition of employment to encour- 1. When to object following information: time, and legal expenses, if any. Specifically
age or discourage membership in any Employees covered by an MNA union • The objector’s name challenged portions of the agency fee may be
labor organization: Provided, that security clause will receive this notice of • The objector’s address placed in escrow during the resolution of a
nothing in this Act, or in any other their rights annually in the Mass Nurse. • The name of the objector’s challenge. MNA may, at its option, waive an
statute of the United States, shall If an employee wishes to object to MNA’s employer objector’s agency fee rather than provide an
preclude an employer from making designation of chargeable expenses, he or • The non-member’s employee identi- accounting or process a challenge.
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 11
Newton public health nurses demonstrate the power of effective organizing
The city of Newton has long been regarded with public health dollars instead of school
as one of the state’s most prestigious com- department dollars—even though 85 percent
munities, and in many circles it is considered of those working for public health actually
the ideal place to live, work and raise a work in schools.”
family. Its stellar reputation is founded on But the challenges didn’t end there: “When
truth, and that message is driven home by the city divides its budget annually,” said
Newton’s mayor, David B. Cohen, on the Creedon, the nurse for the Angier Elemen-
suburb’s Web page: “We are a leader among tary School’s 275 students, “70 percent of the
communities, with an excellent school system dollars go to schools while only 30 percent
and nationally acclaimed library; and we are of the dollars go to public health and other
recognized as one of the top-five safest cities city departments. That means school health
in the nation.” programs always have considerably less
But just a few months ago, Newton found funding.”
itself at the edge of a dangerous precipice— With 21 schools and more than 11,200
one that could have ruined the safety and students, those dollar amounts make the
security of the city’s school children. The city’s nurses’ jobs exceptionally challenging. “We
school nurses, all of who are employed as part don’t merely identify the sick kids and then
of Newton’s public health department and send them home,” said Jacobs. “Our job is to
all of who are MNA members, were facing keep them healthy, no matter what the ail-
dramatic cuts in funding. ment may be, so that they can stay in school
The results could have been disastrous if and learn.”
it had not been for the dedication, work and And those ailments can be varied and seri-
hard-core organizing efforts of the nurses in ous: cancer, cerebral palsy, cardiac conditions,
Newton’s public health department. asthma, hepatitis, catherizations and devel-
opmental disorders to name a few. Add to
Nursing in Newton’s schools this the fact that all of Newton’s public health
In the spring of 2002, school nurses Michelle nurses are required to be first responders in
Jacobs and Karen Creedon had officially the case of a community-wide health crisis. School nurse Michelle Jacobs poses with just a few of the students she cares for at
settled into their new positions as co-chairs “There was no doubt,” said Creedon. “We the Lincoln-Eliot School in Newton.
of their MNA bargaining unit—the Newton were not meeting the standard set by the Spe-
public health department. Their unit, from the cial Commission on School Nursing Services tional funding for us, but the talk in town bargaining unit began to network with the
beginning, was facing some challenges. that stated the nurse-to-student ratio should implied otherwise,” remembered Jacobs. community’s parent-teacher organizations
“Newton is kind of unique,” said Jacobs, be no more than one to 500. We didn’t even “Karen and I started to understand that any (PTOs), there was clearly a growing sense
the nurse responsible for administering care have a nurse in every school.” override was probably only going to benefit of urgency about keeping a nurse in every
to the 275 students in the city’s Lincoln-Eliot Things started to improve though when the school budget, and our bargaining unit school. “It took some time,” Jacobs continued,
School. “It’s one of the state’s few remaining the public health department briefly became was, unfortunately, part of the public health “but our messages were clear and true: school
municipalities that funds its school nurses the benefactor of a sort of financial windfall. budget.” nurses are the key to keeping kids safe and in
“The state received money from Added to this was the fact that the future class, and healthy children are always better
a tobacco settlement,” explained of the grant money looked uncertain. “With- students. Keeping a nurse in every school was
Jacobs, “and we were awarded out the grant and without the benefits of a the only way to make this happen.”
an Enhanced School Health Proposition 2½ override the future of our As the bargaining unit continued its
Grant as a result.” With its new bargaining unit and the services we provide outreach efforts, a supportive, but subtle,
financing the public health students were in serious jeopardy.” Jacobs and coalition began to grow that included par-
department hired a total of six Creedon immediately started working with ents, teachers and community leaders—and
new nurses, five of who were other members of the bargaining unit, as well soon the issue was on the agenda of the city’s
placed directly in Newton as MNA staffers Joe-anne Fergus and Jason leaders. “We were able to hold a labor man-
schools. “For the first time, Silva, to develop a defensive strategy. agement meeting with Newton officials and
Newton had a nurse in every As their strategizing began to unfold, the part of what we talked about was whether or
school,” she said, “although Newton nurses were hit with a one-two not to let the general community know about
we were still far from meeting punch: the override was approved—with what was happening,” said Creedon. “But no
the ratio of one nurse to every most associated revenue slated to go to the one wanted to have to go there.”
500 students.” school budget—and the grant would be As it turned out, they didn’t have to: the
The benefits of the grant were eliminated. “Our bargaining unit’s expecta- barraging unit had gained the support of
seen immediately however. tions and fears came true,” said Creedon, two important people, Linda Walsh, the city’s
Creedon explained: “During “and we decided as a team that we weren’t director of clinical service, and Mayor Cohen,
the first academic year when going down without a fight.” as well as almost everyone associated with
we had a nurse in every school, the city’s PTOs. “That’s when we started to
there were over 112,000 visits Strategic organizing at its best think that maybe the tides could turn in our
to the nurse’s office, with So together, as a bargaining unit that was favor,” remembered Creedon.
over 46,000 doses of medica- only 25 members strong, Newton’s public The tides did in fact turn in favor of the
tion administered, and almost health nurses began to fight the good fight. bargaining unit. In late winter of 2003, it was
3,000 blood-testing procedures At meeting after meeting, they crafted key announced by Cohen that he would include
completed. Given all of these messages, devised community outreach plans the nursing positions that had been funded
visits, only 3,000 students were and put timelines in place for meeting with by the grant in the city’s own budget. “The
sent home early. That’s ground- the school system’s key opinion leaders. They future looks bright for students in Newton’s
breaking.” also learned how to tell their story in a way public school,” said Jacobs. “They’ll have a
that influenced change: they drove home the nurse in every school again, although we’re
Changing tides fact that without a nurse in each of Newton’s still excited by the prospect of taking on the
By the end of the summer of schools, children would be at risk. one to 500 ratio!”
‘02, however, both the windfall Jacobs and Creedon knew that these poten- According to Joe-ann Fergus, the labor rela-
and the nurse-in-every-school tial risks would not sit well with a community tions director who worked directly with the
benchmark seemed to be dis- that strove for excellence. “When you’re a team in Newton, their work represents how
solving due to the state’s failing role-model community, as Mayor Cohen had successful unions can be. “This 25-member
economy. In addition, there was often said we were, you couldn’t expect that unit organized a seamless campaign to keep
talk about an override of Propo- a shrinking school-health program would go Newton’s school children safe and healthy,
Karen Creedon sits with three students from the Angier sition 2 ½. over well with parents, teachers and opinion and it did so in the midst of two enormous,
Elementary School: (left to right) Dara White, Isabel Melt- “We briefly hoped that an leaders,” said Jacobs. looming budget cuts. That is the power of
zer and Emily Meltzer. override would mean addi- She was right. As members from the organizing.”
Page 12 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
MNF announces August 1 deadline for 2003 nursing scholarships
The Massachusetts Nurses Foundation is a non-profit orga- One $1,500 scholarship for an active member in District Labor Relations Scholarship
nization whose mission is to support scholarship and research 5 pursing a doctoral degree Two $1,000 scholarships are funded annually by a grant
in nursing. The primary goal of the MNF is to advance the established by the MNA Cabinet for Labor Relations. This
profession of nursing by supporting the education of nurses, District 5 Scholarship scholarship is for an RN or health care professional who is
and it provides scholarships and grants to nurses and nursing Funded by District 5, this new scholarship will be given to also an MNA member. Applicants must also be enrolled in
students in an effort to meet this goal. an MNA member active in District 5. Awards include: a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in nursing, labor
This year’s MNF scholarships include: Two $1,000 scholarships for students who are pursuing relations or related field.
nursing degrees and who are also sons or daughters of
Carol Flyzik Scholarship District 5 members Worcester City Hospital Aid Society Scholarship
This new $1,000 scholarship was established by the Hale One $1,000 scholarship for a District 5 members’ signifi- Funded by a sustaining scholarship endowed by the
Hospital Professional Nurses Unit in memory of Carol cant other/spouse who is pursuing a nursing degree Worcester City Hospital Aid Society, this $1,000 scholarship
Flyzik, RN, former Hale Hospital Emergency Room Nurse Two $1,000 scholarships for students who are pursuing is awarded annually to a Worcester-area high school senior
and MNA member, who was a victim of the tragic events of a higher education degree and who are also sons or who will attend a B.S.N. program.
September 11. daughters of a District 5 member
The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student—entry Faulkner Hospital School of Nursing Alumni
level or practicing RN—who is pursuing an associate’s degree District 4 Scholarship
Association Scholarship
or bachelor’s degree in nursing. Preference will be given first Funded by District 4, this $500 scholarship is given to an
Funded by a sustaining scholarship endowed by the
to students living or working in the Merrimack Valley* area, active, District 4 MNA member to assist with his/her studies
Faulkner Hospital School of Nurses Alumni Association, the
and then to other areas of MNA’s District 4. If the applicant is for a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree in nursing.
following awards are given annually:
a practicing RN who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree, she/he
District 3 Scholarship A generic award is given to a student attending an entry
must be an MNA member. In the event that no applicants meet
level RN program. Priority will be given to descendants
the geographic criteria listed above, the scholarship will be Funded by District 3, $10,000 in scholarships is being offered
of Faulkner alumni.
awarded to a deserving candidate who meets all other criteria to an MNA member active in District 3. Awards include:
The Connie Moore Award is given to an RN who is
as determined by the MNF scholarship committee. Two $2,500 scholarships to District 3 members pursuing
pursuing a B.S.N. or M.S.N. degree. Priority will be
*The Merrimack Valley consists of Lawrence, Haverhill, B.S.N.s
given to Faulkner alumni.
Bradford, Georgetown, Groveland, Methuen, Merrimac, One $1,500 scholarship to a District 3 member pursing
Andover and North Andover. an M.S.N. or doctoral degree Scholarship details and deadlines
One $2,500 scholarship to a student pursuing a B.S.N.
Janet Dunphy Scholarship For more information or to request a scholarship applica-
and who is the son or daughter of a District 3 member
tion, call the MNF at 781-830-5745. Please be sure to mention
Funded by a scholarship established by District 5, this One $1,000 scholarship to a student pursuing an associ-
which scholarship for which you are applying.
scholarship is given annually to an MNA member who is ate’s degree in nursing and who is the son or daughter
Scholarship applications must be postmarked by August 1
active in District 5 and who is pursuing a B.S., M.S. or doctoral of a District 3 member
and should be sent to: Massachusetts Nurses Foundation, 340
degree. Awards include:
District 2 Scholarship Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021. All scholarships, unless
One $2,000 scholarship for an active member in District
otherwise noted, will be awarded at the MNA’s annual awards
5 pursuing a B.S. in nursing Funded by District 2, one $1,000 scholarship is being offered
banquet in October.
One $1,500 scholarship for an active member in District to a family member of an active MNA member in District 2
5 pursuing a M.S. in nursing who is attending nursing school.
Donations needed for
MNF Annual Auction!
We Need Your Help
The Massachusetts Nurses Foundation is preparing for its 20th
Annual Silent & Live Auction to be held at the MNA Convention
in October. Donations are needed to make this fundraising event a
big success! Your tax-deductible donation helps the foundation raise
funds to support nursing scholarships & research.
Your support is appreciated: Benefits Corner brought to you by…
Jeanine Williams, MNF President
Patricia Healey, MNF Secretary MNA offers new money-saving benefits
MNA is proud to offer its members two MNA membership department to receive
Liz Joubert, MNF Treasurer new benefits that provide savings on eye your Sight Care ID card including a com-
care and healthcare apparel. plete list of all discounts available.
Valuable Personal Items Craft Items Sight Care Vision Savings Plan Work ‘n Gear discount
Get substantial discounts on annual Work ‘n Gear features a huge selection
Gift Certificates Memorabilia & Collectibles eye examinations, eyeglass frames, lenses of the top brands in healthcare apparel,
Works of Art Vacation Packages and contact lenses at the 27 Cambridge shoes and accessories. Get your gear at a
Eye Doctors or Vision World locations store that specializes in quality healthcare
All donations will be appreciated! across Massachusetts, New Hampshire apparel. You’ll save 15 percent off all reg-
and Rhode Island. Some of the discounts ularly priced merchandise, everyday, just
available through this savings plan include for being a member of MNA. Stop by your
Contact the MNF at 781-830-5745 to obtain an auction donor 20 percent off all contact lenses; eyeglass favorite Massachusetts Work ‘n Gear store
frames at a significant discounted prices; and present your valid MNA membership
form or simply mail or deliver your donation to the Massachusetts single vision lenses only $40 (compared to card to pick up your MNA/Work ‘n Gear
Nurses Foundation, 340 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021. $90); bifocals $60 (compared to $140) with discount card. Call 1-800-WORKNGEAR
free scratch resistant coating. Contact the for a store near you.
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 13
DEP provides daily air quality updates
C
ongratulations to all MNA members who attended the June 18 press
With the arrival of smog season, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has
conference & legislative hearing on H.1282, An Act Ensuring Quality
resumed daily air-quality forecasting. In addition to warm-weather regional forecasts for
Patient Care and Safe RN Staffing Legislation! ground-level ozone, the DEP has started to issue year-round forecasts for fine particle pollu-
tion in the state’s largest cities.
With your support, this event allowed us to give legislators and reporters These particles, which are made up of dust, dirt, soot, smoke and liquid droplets, can
detailed information and history on RN understaffing, the state of nursing in penetrate deep into the respiratory system when inhaled and can increase the likelihood
of respiratory infections, as well as aggravate asthma and chronic bronchitis. Children, the
Massachusetts— and the bill that can end both problems: MNA’s H.1282!
elderly and people with existing heart or lung disease are most at risk for suffering from
particle-related health problems.
Help us keep the issue of safe staffing on the legislature’s agenda!
For current information on your community’s air quality, including ozone and particle
updates, call 800-882-1497 or visit www.mass.gov/ozone/.
Contact your state senators and representatives today
• Provide your legislator with some insight into your job as a front-line
nurse
• Tell them why you support safe staffing legislation
MNA baseball cap returns in time for summer
• Share a personal story with them
• Ask them to contact their colleagues on the Health Care Committee and
urge them to support MNA’s safe staffing legislation!
Call you senator & representative now.
Personal contact helps bills become laws!
Senate switchboard: 617-722-1455 • House switchboard: 617-722-2000
Thank you MNA members!
Get Political—Give to NursePLAN!
Limited Edition, 100th Anniversary
MNA Jackets! Available for $10, these 100 percent cotton hats have a navy blue rim and a beige cap.
High-quality, Amer i can-made wind- The MNA logo is silk screened in navy blue on the front. To order, contact Rosemary
breakers with MNA emblazoned on the Smith in the MNA’s membership department, 781-830-5741 or send checks directly
back and the MNA 100th Anniversary to: MNA Membership Dept., 340 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021.
logo on the front.
Front zipper close, full hood,
royal blue/black accents with Join the MNA in welcoming the Mercy Ships to Boston
white printing. Perfect for the Mercy Ships is a global charity that pro-
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by NursePLAN, donate their services onboard the ships or at
the political land-based offices.
On July 2 and 9, the ship Caribbean Mercy will host receptions for healthcare providers
action committee while in port in Boston. For more information, contact the Mercy Ships advance office at
781-934-2704.
of the MNA.
Your pur chase helps support the
political activities of nurses across the state. Only $85 if you sign up for a Union Reserve early—Space is limited to 48 people!
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For more info or to order, call 781.821.4625 x725 or e-mail kanderson@mnarn.org.
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Name: ________________________________________________________________ October 21 - 29 – Montecatini Spa located in
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This all-inclusive trip to the Tuscany region of Italy
Employer*: _______________________ Occupation*: ___________________________
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I would like to contribute the additional amount of (PLEASE CIRCLE ONE) Applicable departure taxes are not included.
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to be deducted from my account that I have designated for my monthly MNA dues.
To receive more information and a flyer on these European vacations,
Signature _______________________________________________ Date _________________
Some sizes are special order and will take up to 8 weeks to be delivered.
please contact Carol Mallia, RN, MSN, 781-830-5755 or
NursePLAN is the voluntary, non-profit, political action committee for the MNA whose mission is to further the political e-mail at cmallia@mnarn.org
education of all nurses, and to raise funds/make contributions to political candidates who support related issues.
Page 14 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
MNA Elections: Ballot & Candidate Information
2003 voting instructions and details
A draft of the final ballot for the 2003 MNA Elections is A. The ballot must be received by 5 p.m., Sept. 20, 2003. order to assure that a ballot can in no way be identified with
printed below. Final ballots will be mailed Sept. 1 to all mem- B. Complete area (as per instructions on form) next to the an individual voter.
bers in good standing at the address on record. name of your choice. You may vote for any candidate If the mailing envelope has been misplaced, another enve-
Ballots must be returned no later than September 20, 2003 from any district. lope can be substituted. This envelope must be addressed
in the envelope that will be provided. C. Do not mark the ballot outside of the identified area. to MNA Secretary, c/o Contracted Election Administrator at
Please be sure to save the biographies that are printed D. Write-in votes shall not be considered valid and will their address. In the upper left-hand corner of this envelope
in this edition of the Massachusetts Nurse as this is the only not be counted. you must:
copy members will receive. Bios also are posted on the MNA E. Enclose the correct and completed voting ballot in an A. Block print your name
Web site. Biographies will not be mailed with the ballots in envelope (marked Ballot Return Envelope), which does B. Sign your name (signature required)
September. not identify the voter in any way, in order to assure C. Write your address and zip code
Following are ballot and voting instructions: secret ballot voting. If this information is not on the mailing envelope, the secret
All mailing envelopes will be separated from the inner enve- ballot inside is invalid.For more information, please contact
lope containing the ballot before the ballots are removed in the MNA membership department at (781) 830-5741.
MNA 2003 elections final ballot
President, General (1 for 2 years)
Karen Higgins, RN (District 5)
Candidate Information
Secretary, General (1 for 2 years) President, General voice
Sandy Eaton, RN (District 5) Karen Higgins, RN Protection and promotion of RN practice by requir-
District Director, Labor, (5 for 2 years) Weymouth, Mass. ing safe staffing, opposing intrusions on RN scope
District 1 (1 for 2 years) Employment: Staff nurse, Boston Medical Center. of practice and deskilling, and defending occupa-
Irene Patch, RN (District 1) Education: Quincy City Hospital School of Nursing, tional health and workplace safety
District 2 (1 for 2 years) Diploma, 1975; Quincy Junior College, Associates Preservation of autonomy and independence of
Mary Marengo, RN (District 2) Degree, 1975. individual member organizations
Patricia Mayo, RN (District 2) Present Office: MNA President. Establishment of single-payer universal national
District 3 (1 for 2 years) Past offices: Secretary, Cabinet for Labor Relations; Vice health care
Tina Russell, RN (District 3) Chair, Cabinet for Labor Relations; Chair, Cabinet for Unionization of any U.S. RN’s desiring representa-
District 4 (1 for 2 years) Labor Relations. tion
No candidate In seeking re-election to the office of MNA President, my Solidarity with international nurses’ organizations
District 5 (1 for 2 years) motivation is to work with the MNA membership and Board that share similar goals and values
Marlene Demers, RNC (District 5) of Directors to protect and enhance the practice of front-line • Defeat the Bush/Romney agenda (tax cuts and loop-
Connie Hunter RNC (District 5) staff nurses. holes for the rich and their corporations; cutbacks
At-large Director, General (3 for 2 years) I bring more than 28 years experience as a front-line ICU for everyone else; privatization, union-busting,
Richard Lambos, RN (District 3) nurse at Boston Medical Center, 18 years experience as a repression here; endless military adventures abroad)
Jeannine Williams, RN (District 2) leader within the organization, including 4 years as chair of through uniting with all who fight for just health care
James Moura, RN, BSN (District 5) the MNA’s Cabinet for Labor Relations and the last 2 years in a just society, while exposing the corporations’
At-large Director, Labor (4 for 2 years) as President. bipartisan enablers.
Barbara “Cookie” Cooke, RN (District 3) I have been a co-chair of the MNA’s Statewide Campaign
Donna Kelly-Williams, RN, CPN (District 5) for Safe Care, the chair of the MNA’s Nursing Shortage Task
District Director, Labor
Barbara Norton RN (District 5) Force, and a founding member of the Task Force on Work- District 1
Beth Piknick (District 3) place Violence. Irene Patch, RN
Sharon McCollum, RN, BSN (District 5) I believe that as a working staff nurse I can be a voice for Belchertown, Mass.
Betty Sparks, RN (District 5) all those working today and am able to express the needs and Employment: Staff nurse, Holyoke Soldier’s Home
Joanne Bartoszewicz, RN, BSN, CGRN (District 5) concerns we have on professional issues as well as workplace Education: Springfield Tech Community College, AD Nurs-
Labor Program Member (1 for 2 years) issues for all members of MNA. I am very clear of the vital roll ing, 1978; UMass Amherst, BS Public Health, 1976.
Beth Gray-Nix, OTR/L (District 5) all nurses and Health Care Professionals play in health care Present offices: NursePlan Board of Directors; union repre-
Nominations & Elections Committee at all levels. I see us as advocates assuring that patients are sentative at Holyoke Soldier’s Home; Board of Directors
District 1 (1 for 2 years) cared for safely but I am also clear that we as nurses need the District 1.
No Candidate ability to practice safely as well. One cannot happen without District 2
District 2 (1 for 2 years) the other. I will continue to fight for nursing’s place in the Mary Marengo, RN
No Candidate health care arena and make sure that MNA continues to be a Douglas, Mass.
District 3 (1 for 2 years) strong and vocal voice for nurses, Health Care Professionals Employment: Staff nurse, St. Vincent Hospital/Worcester
No Candidate and patients. I will continue to aggressively address any issue Medical Center.
District 4 (1 for 2 years) that affects nurses or our patients with the goal of SAFETY for Education: Quinsigamond Community College, ADN,
No Candidate both you and your patients. I am asking for your vote to re- 1978; Fitchburg State College, BSN, 1992.
District 5 (1 for 2 years) elect me as President of MNA for a second term and promise Present offices: Board of Directors; Finance Committee;
No Candidate I will continue with the same commitment I have given in District 2 Board of Directors, secretary.
Bylaws Committee (5 for 2 years) (1 per district) the past. Thank you. Past offices: President, Unit 7; Co-Chair Westboro State
Sandra E. LeBlanc, RN, CNOR (District 5) Hospital.
Congress on Nursing Practice (6 for 2 years) Secretary, General As a recently “privatized” state employee, working now as
No Candidate Sandy Eaton, RN a staff nurse in a for-profit organization, I bring a multifaceted
Congress on Health Policy & Legislation (6 for 2 years) Quincy, Mass. perspective along with a renewed respect and commitment
Jennifer E. Hilt, RN, BSN (District 2) Employment: Staff nurse, Quincy Medical Center to the necessity of achieving our safe staffing legislation for
Congress on Health & Safety (6 for 2 years) Education: Massasoit Community College, ADN, 1981; Boston which I have already been an ardent supporter as a member of
Janet K. Reeves, RN, C (District 3) College, AB, 1992. the MNA Board of Directors. Also, as a member and secretary
Kathryn A. McGinn-Cutler, RN (District 5) Present offices: Secretary, Board of Directors; Diversity Com- of District 2, I am excited that the centennial convention will
Janice Homer (District 5) mittee; AARN Representative; Steering Committee, Statewide be held where “the heart of the nursing revolution” began
Mary Bellistri (District 5) Campaign for Safe Care; District 5 First Vice President. with our historic “independence” vote at Mechanics Hall in
David A. Denneno, RN, MSN, MEd, CEN (District 5) Past offices: Board of Directors—At-Large; District 5 Acting Worcester. It is fitting that one of the topics this year as we
Rosemary Anne O’Brien, RN (District 5) President; District 5 Board of Directors At-Large. march toward meeting those stated goals, is the reorganiz-
Gail Lenehan, RN, EdD, FAAN (District 3) If re-elected, I will continue to advocate that MNA: ing of the districts in order to promote at a grass roots level
Mary Anne Dillon RN, BSN (District 5) • Win enactment of safe staffing and fundamental health- increasing bargaining unit and staff nurse development in cru-
Michael D’Intinosanto, RN (District 2) care reform by any means necessary. cial public relations, legislative, labor and organizing venues.
Elizabeth A. O’Connor, RN, BSN (District 5) • Perfect our nursing revolution by transforming obsolete It is my belief that due to my past and present involvement in
Victoria Brownstone (District 5) districts into meaningful regional bodies. many aspects of my bargaining units, MNA and the district, I
Center for Nursing Ethics (2 for 2 years) • Promote AARN’s principles: provide insight and a beneficial representative voice, hope you
No Candidate Establishment of a progressive national nurses’ More candidate profiles, next page
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 15
Candidate Info
Employment: Staff nurse, Newton Wellesley Hospital. Taunton, Mass.
Education: Newton Junior College, ADN, 1976 Employment: RN medical/surgical, Brockton Hospital.
Present offices: Congress on Health Policy & Legislation, Education: Brockton Hospital School of Nursing, diploma,
agree and look forward to contributing to the work ahead. 2003; Co-Chair Newton Wellesley Bargaining Unit, 2002, 1984; Bridgewater State College, BS Education, 1979.
Patricia Mayo, RN 2003; District 5 Board of Directors, 2003. Present office: Co-chair, Brockton Hospital Bargaining Unit
Fiskdale, Mass. Past offices: Congress on Health Policy & Legislation, 2001; I have been a front line nurse for 20 years working on a
Employment: RN, St. Vincent’s Hospital Nurses’ Committee, Newton Wellesley Hospital Bargain- medical surgical unit for my entire nursing career. I have seen
Education: Worcester City Hospital, Diploma, 1965. ing Unit, 1993-Present; District 5 Board of Directors 2002. the changes and have been active in MNA but have no experi-
Present offices: St. Vincent’s Hospital Co-Chair, 2001-Pres- ence in an elected position. I have been a nursing leader at
ent; MNA Awards Committee, 2002-Present; District 2 Director At-Large General Brockton Hospital and presently serve as the co-chair of the
Board of Director, 2001-Present. Richard Lambos, RN bargaining unit. I choose to run now because I see the “Evolu-
Past offices: St. Vincent’s Hospital Secretary. Edgartown, Mass. tion of the Revolution” as my time to offer my experience. I
Having served as co-chair of the St.Vincent nurses bargain- Employment: Staff nurse ER, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital will commit to serve with an energy that I believe will produce
ing unit and a member of the District 2 Board of Directors, I am Education: Newton Junior College, AD, 1972. positive changes for all RN’s. I promise to work in my elected
eager to expand my leadership to serve on the MNA Board of Present offices: Director At-Large General; Unit chairman, position to make it better for our patients and our profession.
Directors. As a nurse at the bedside, I experience firsthand the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. It is time to do so. Thank you for your consideration.
hardships facing the nursing profession. I feel that I possess Past offices: MNA Finance Committee. Donna Kelly-Williams, RN, CPN
the leadership and outreach skills necessary to continue to Presently I am a member of the MNA Board of Directors and Arlington, Mass.
enhance the hard work done by the “new MNA” to help pass hope to continue serving the nurses of Massachusetts in that Employment: Pediatric Clinical Nurse III, Cambridge
Safe Staffing Legislation and to do all that we need to, in order capacity. Each and every nurse in Massachusetts, and every Hospital.
to bring new nurses into the profession and retain those who patient, will be impacted by what “we,” as an organization, Education: Laselle College, AD, 1978; Labor Guild.
consider leaving. Thank you for your consideration. are trying to accomplish through MNA’s Safe Staffing Cam- Present offices: Cambridge Hospital MNA President;
District 3 paign. I stress the word “we” because only through collective, Congress on Health Policy; Nurse Plan; District 5 Board
Tina Russell, RN united, and organized action can we win this battle. I feel safe of Directors.
East Bridgewater, Mass. staffing is the most important issue for nurses in this state and Past offices: MNA 100th Anniversary Celebration; Cam-
Employment: Staff nurse, Brockton Hospital nationally. Let me continue to help you attain that goal. bridge Hospital Negotiation Team.
Education: Brockton Hospital School of Nursing, Diploma, Jeannine Williams, RN I have been an MNA Nurse specializing in Maternal-Child
1962. Manchaug, Mass. Health, currently in General Inpatient Pediatrics for over 25
Present offices: MNA Board of Directors; MNA Finance Employment: Retired years. Although many aspects of healthcare have changed
Committee; Negotiating Committee Brockton Hospital. Education: Charlotte County Memorial, RN, 1958. during my practice years, the one thing that remains the same
Past offices: Cabinet for Labor Relations; Board of Direc- Present offices: President, Mass. Nurses Foundation; MNA is the need for the Registered Nurse to take care and coordinate
tors; President District III; Co-Chair Bargaining Unit Board of Directors; Convention Planning Committee; the care of all patients. In order for us to take our profession
Brockton Hospital. Safe Care; President, District 2. away from its endangered species status, we need to engage
This is a time of great change at MNA, in nursing, and in I have a strong belief in union rights and the importance current and future nurses to become more involved politi-
health care. of organizing in order for RN’s and health professionals to cally. As an elected member of the MNA Board of Directors,
I have had the privilege of working with wonderful nurses have a voice and protection in the workplace. It is this belief I would add diversity, as a member of both a hospital and
and staff at MNA, both on the Cabinet for Labor Relations that has guided me in my leadership roles as a member of the clinical specialty not currently represented, and would strive
and the Board of Directors. MNA Board of Directors and as District II President. Though to bring more nurses to become pro-active in representing our
Since the Cabinet and the Board merged, there has been currently retired, I also served as secretary of Unit 7 and Chair profession in the healthcare political arena.
an increased effort to pass our Safe Staffing Bill. We have at Westboro State Hospital for many years. My history with Barbara Norton, RN
become very politically active. I would like to continue to be the MNA provides the necessary experience and a valuable Portsmouth, Rhode Island
involved in this activity. perspective as our organization moves forward. I am eager Employment: Staff nurse, Brigham & Women’s Hospital.
There is still so much to be done to improve the working to participate in our exciting future which must include pas- Education: Laboure College, AD
conditions for all nurses in our state and to insure that all our sage of our safe staffing legislation and organizing efforts. Present offices: MNA Board of Directors; Chairperson,
patients have the safest and best quality care possible. I seek your support of another two-year term on the MNA Brigham & Women’s Bargaining Unit.
We need our Safe Staffing Bill. We need Single Payer Health Board of Directors. Beth Piknick
Care. We need safe working environment for ALL nurses and James Moura, RN, BSN Hyannis, Mass.
health care providers. Dorchester, Mass. Employment: Staff nurse, Cape Cod Hospital
There is SO much to be done and I would like very much Employment: Staff nurse, PACU, West Roxbury VA Medi- Education: Faulkner Hospital School of Nursing, Diploma,
to remain a part of this by remaining a member of the MNA cal Center. 1971; Lesley College, BS, 1999.
Board of Directors. Thank you. Education: University of Rhode Island, BSN, 1974. Present offices: Liaison Cape Cod Hospital Bargaining
District 4 Present offices: MNA Director at Large, General; MNA Unit; District 3 president; MNA Board of Directors,
No candidate Board Policy Committee; District 5 Board of Directors. Director At-Large; Districts Summit Committee; AARN
District 5 Past offices: Cabinet for Labor Relations; ANA delegate; representative from Massachusetts.
Marlene Demers, RNC Congress on Health & Safety. Past offices: District 3, vice president; MNA Board of
Pelham, N.H. My vision for our association is one of labor activism, Directors, Director At-Large; Cape Cod Hospital Local
Employment: Health Care Facility Inspector I; DPH— social justice and member empowerment. I oppose the Bush Bargaining Unit.
Health Care Quality. and Romney agenda. Their proposals weaken and destroy This fall, I would ask you to consider voting for me in the
Education: NH Technical Institute, ADN, 1978; New our collective bargaining rights and dismantle core public position of MNA, Director At-Large, Labor position. The
Hampshire College, BS, Health Care Administration, health services and support for Medicare, Social Security change within the association continues. It has been an honor
1983; Springfield College, MS Psychology, 1990. and Medicaid programs which protect the most vulnerable to be part of this ongoing change and growth.
I have been a health care facility inspector for the Depart- of our nation’s and state’s population. I will work for the I have been involved in the MNA since 1975. It has been an
ment of Public Health for the past 11 years. It has been a role following: immense joy to observe the Association become powerful and
that has evolved as the health care industry changes. However, • The passage of safe staffing legislation, which will credible in so many areas. I hope to continue my involvement
the issues of quality of care and patient and staff safety remain establish professional conditions for nursing practice with MNA. So, please allow me to do this by voting for me.
a constant focus of the oversight of health care providers. and safe patient care in the commonwealth. More important than voting for me is that you vote. Please
My worldview of nursing has also evolved over the 25 years • The passage of Universal Health Care access in the take a few minutes to review the candidates and participate
I have practiced nursing. We are in desperate need to recruit Commonwealth to promote better patient health in YOUR Association by voting.
nursing students to begin to address the nursing shortage as outcomes. Sharon McCollum, RN, BSN
well as to care for nurses who are providing care in settings • Expanding funding and resources to support effective Dorchester, Mass.
where staffing continues to be problematic. We must be vocal, internal and external union organizing support for Employment: Nursing Supervisor, Department of Mental
as we become aware of negative patient outcomes. Nurses our union members and the education of their union Health.
can be the voice of reason as we advocate for quality nursing leadership through the MNA Labor Institute. Education: University of Vermont, BSN, 1974.
services for those who are entrusted to our care. • The building of coalitions with like-minded Present offices: Board of Directors, Director at Large; Board
I believe that my years of experience in nursing administra- health care professional, nursing and community Executive Committee; Co-Chairperson Diversity Com-
tion, program development (quality assurance) and ongoing organizations to promote nursing’s agenda in the mittee.
regulatory oversight of health care facilities will prove to be Commonwealth. Past offices: Nominations Committee; 2000 Leader Fellow;
assets for the position that I seek on the Board of Directors. Diversity Task Force; District 5 Nominations Committee.
Connie Hunter, RNC Director At-Large Labor Betty Sparks, RN
East Walpole, Mass. Barbara “Cookie” Cooke, RN
More candidate profiles, next page
Page 16 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
MNA Elections: Candidate Information
Rosemary Anne O’Brien, RN
Norwood, Mass. Diploma. South Harwich, Mass.
Employment: Staff nurse ED, Newton Wellesley Hospital. Present offices: Bylaws Committee; Congress on Health & Employment: RN II Nurse Consultant, Commonwealth of
Education: Massasoit Community College, AD, 1991. Safety; Unit Treasurer 1983-present. Massachusetts, Department of Mental Retardation.
Present offices: Director At Large, Labor; NursePlan; Board Education: Catherine Laboure School of Nursing, RN, 1960;
Policy Committee. Congress on Nursing Practice Boston College, 1961-1965; U-Mass Boston, 1990-1993.
This is a challenging time for our profession, regardless if No candidates. Present offices: Union Rep, 1995 – present; Workplace
we are general or labor relations members. On a daily basis Violence Task Force, 1999-present; Congress on Health &
we deal with increased patient activity, increasing patient Congress on Health Policy & Legislation Safety, 2001 – present; Convention Committee 2001, 2002,
assignments, hospital reorganization, and large hospital Jennifer E. Hilt, RN, BSN 2003; BORN Task Force 2002 – 2003.
conglomerates along with our governor attempting to control, Worcester, Mass. Gail Lenehan RN, EdD, FAAN
gut or eliminate collective bargaining agreements. Employment: Maternal Child Health Nurse Per Diem, U- Hingham, Mass.
Though the work is difficult and exhausting, we need to Mass Memorial Home Health. Employment: Editor, Journal of Emergency Nurses, Emer-
join together, presenting a united front, to protect our patients, Education: University of Rochester, BSN, 1993; UMass gency Nurses Association.
our families and ourselves by working to pass our safe staff- Medical Center Nurse Practitioner Program, MSN (in Education: St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing, RN
ing legislation. progress). Diploma, 1968; Boston College School of Nursing, BSN,
As we move into MNA’s second century of being the voice As a practicing community health nurse, I believe public 1972; Boston University, MS, 1973; Harvard, EdD, 1996.
of our profession in Massachusetts, we need to reflect on the health impacts everyone. Past offices: Congress on Health and Safety.
300 women who saw a need and formed MNA 100 years ago. From closing mental health facilities to concerns over recent As the editor of the well respected Journal of Emergency
They knew that by speaking with one voice, there were many infectious diseases, healthcare has moved beyond the tradi- Nursing for over 20 years, I have strongly advocated not
things they could accomplish. tional boundaries. Since nursing is the profession dedicated only for the well being of patients, but emergency nurses
We, as the nurses of the second century, need to work to to improving patient quality of life, we must be as dynamic as well. I have written numerous editorials and articles, in
advance the practice and profession of nursing, by setting as the environment we practice in. As both consumers and many journals, educating nurses on SARS, smallpox vac-
new standards for the nurses who will follow us. employees in health care, we know a safe nursing work cinations, needlesticks, violence in hospitals, back injuries,
Thank you for allowing me to work for us. I ask that you environment is vital to providing patient care in a hospital, latex allergy, hepatitis and chemical injuries, have helped to
continue to give me this privilege by voting for me. clinic or home. organize national conferences on the issues, and have lectured
Joanne Bartoszewicz, RN, BSN, CCRN As a member of the Congress on Health Policy and Legisla- extensively.
Melrose, Mass. tion, I would inform and rally our MNA membership about I have worked closely now for seven years with Evie Bain,
Employment: Staff nurse, Whidden Memorial Hospital/ the nursing oriented issues in the legislature. MNA’s nurse expert on occupational safety, and the Congress
Cambridge Health Alliance. on Health and Safety, an admirable group of nurses with a
Education: Whidden Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, Congress on Health and Safety great esprit de corps. MNA’s is the only Congress on Health
Diploma 1979; Salem State College, BSN 2001. Janet K. Reeves, RN, C and Safety in the entire country and an outstanding prototype.
Present offices: Chairperson, Whidden Memorial Hospital Norwell, Mass. I respectfully ask for another term on the Congress. There
bargaining unit; vice-chairperson, Congress on Health Employment: Staff RN, Newton Wellesley Hospital. is much more to do, to raise the consciousness of hospital
Policy & Legislation; executive committee, NursePlan; Safe Education: Cape Cod Community College, AD, 1974. administrations, to educate each other, and to stop blaming
Staffing Committee and District 5 Financial Committee. Kathryn A. McGinn-Cutler, RN the victim. A T-shirt I saw recently said, “If someone saves
With the current trends in health care, staff Registered Westwood, Mass. one life, they are a hero; if they save a hundred lives, they are
Nurses will need to advocate not only for patients, but Employment: Staff nurse, disabled. a nurse.” Nurses need to save, not just the lives of patients,
advocate even more confidently for ourselves. It is with this Education: Northeastern University, BSN, 1986. but our own lives as well.
confidence and authority that we will make the changes in Present offices: Congress on Health & Safety. Mary Anne Dillon, RN, BSN
health care that are necessary. As a staff nurse at a community Janice Homer Brookline, Mass.
hospital, I will bring over 24 years of experience to the Board Brockton, Mass. Employment: Staff nurse, MICU, Brigham & Women’s
of Directors. I will also bring confidence I have developed Employment: Staff nurse NICU; Tufts New England Medi- Hospital.
from my experience as a chairperson from a strong, supportive cal Center. Education: U-Mass Boston, BSN, 2003; Fulton Montgomery
bargaining unit with a history of embracing change. I look for- Education: Brockton Hospital School of Nursing, Diploma Community College, ADN, 1977; Boston City Hospital,
ward to contributing to the challenges the Board of Directors RN; University of Green Bay Wisconsin, presently pursu- LPN, 1976.
will face in dealing with the current trends in health care. ing BSN. The complexities of our health care system have the poten-
Present offices: Congress on Health & Safety. tial for long term affects on a nurse’s health and safety. The
Labor Program Member Janice is a RN with 22 years experience in hospital nurs- continuous demand to manage these inadequacies while
Beth Gray-Nix, OTR/L ing. Presently a NICU nurse at Tufts New England Medical simultaneously providing care requires our profession to
Sudbury, Mass. Center, Boston, Mass. Since 2000, she has lead a task force remain vigilant. Supporting safe staffing legislation keeping
Employment: Director of Occupational Therapy; The Fer- in Massachusetts Nurses Association Congress on Health abreast with the national and regional debate on the small-
nald Center. & Safety investigating chemical injuries and the high rate pox vaccination program and its implications to the nurse
Education: Utica College Syracuse University, BS, 1978. of occupational asthma in nurses. Janice has been involved would be a few examples. By continually addressing these
Present offices: Board of Directors, Labor Program in reviewing and analyzing data from various medical and ongoing issues and utilizing current research in this quest
Member; Unit 7 Executive Committee OT Rep.; Member- technical literatures on the effects of indoor chemical expo- should create a safer environment for present and future
ship, Finance & Legislative Committee for Unit 7. sure. She has lectured on toxic chemical use in the healthcare nurses alike. I would like to be involved with this process as
Past offices: Unit 7 State Employee Occupational Therapy industry and assisted with air quality investigations within your representative.
Representative. healthcare institutions. She is presently an active member in I have spent 27 years as a front line provider which includes
I have been a strong supporter of MNA since 1981 when I Health Care Without Harm, Health Care Without Harm Work nearly three years as a head nurse at Boston City Hospital,
first joined as the occupational therapy representative on the Groups for Nurses; Mass Department of Public Health Asthma with that in mind my concerns for the safety and health of
Unit 7 State Employee Executive Board. I want to continue to Coordination Project; MNA Congress on Health & Safety and our profession is foremost.
represent the health care professionals on the board of direc- Tufts New England Medical Center’s Safety Committee. Michael D’Intinosanto, RN
tors because we are an important part of the overall push for Mary Bellistri Winchendon, Mass.
quality care. As a member of the board of directors, I have Norwell, Mass. Employment: RN Supervisor, Templeton Developmental
been able to influence and change bylaws and policy at MNA Employment: RN-Staff, Boston Medical Center. Center.
to be inclusive of our professions. Please help me continue to Education: Boston City Hospital School of Nursing, Education: Laboure Junior College, ADN 1984; Fitchburg
work for you by giving me your vote. Diploma, 1973; Suffolk University, BS, 1981. State College, BSN, 1999.
Present offices: Member, Work Place Violence Task Force; Present offices: District 2 Nominating Committee; Vice
Nominations & Elections Committee Boston Medical Center Negotiating Committee. President, Unit 7; Safe Care Steering Committee.
No candidates. Past offices: Congress on Health & Safety. Past offices: Chair, Congress on Health Policy and Legisla-
David A. Denneno, RN, MSN, MEd, CEN tion (1999-2003); Vice President of District 2.
Bylaws Committee Stoughton, Mass. Having served on the Congress on Health Policy and
Sandra E. LeBlanc, RN, CNOR Employment: Staff RN, Caritas Norwood Hospital Legislation for these past eight years, I know full well the
Waban, Mass. Education: Regis College, BSN, 2002; MSN, 2003; Eastern importance of MNA’s structural units. The elected leaders of
Employment: Pod Coordinator, Newton Wellesley Hospi- Nazarene College, BA-Biology, 1981; MEd, 1984. the MNA structural units help to establish policy and position
tal. Present offices: Workplace Violence Task Force; Health &
Education: Newton Wellesley Hospital School of Nursing, Safety Congress.
More candidate profiles, next page
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 17
MNA condemns Tenet-SEIU neutrality pact and supports California nurses
The MNA joined the California Nurses the Massachusetts Nurses Association—an SEIU pact and will proceed. hospital closures or any business decisions
Association (CNA) in condemning a deal independent nurses union representing more “Free elections should be a model for Tenet that compromise patient care. SEIU also co-
announced recently by Tenet Healthcare and than 22,000 RNs and health professionals in RNs and all Tenet employees. In the United wrote harmful programs such as bonuses for
the Service Employee International Union Massachusetts. “The point of collective bar- States, employees still get to choose their telephone advice clerks who limit patient
(SEIU) as an attempt to bribe Tenet employ- gaining is to organize a union to negotiate union and should not have the company referrals to physicians.
ees, deny them a democratic choice on who a contract that meets your needs. This deal choose it for them,” said CNA executive CNA said that it will file charges with the
should represent them and, in the end, create forces nurses to except a contract in order to director Rose Ann DeMoro. National Labor Relations Board and is con-
a “company union” that will deny nurses at have a union, and a union without the power “It’s outrageous that non-union Tenet RNs sidering other legal actions against the pact.
California-based Tenet hospitals from having to act like a union at all.” and other employees, who are far behind the Several provisions of the deal are illegal
a real and powerful union voice on patient World renowned consumer advocate Ralph economic standards of other hospital work- including:
care issues. Nader has also joined CNA and the MNA in ers, especially RNs represented by CNA in Forcing employees to join SEIU as
The Tenet-SEIU agreement would allow questioning the agreement and its impact on 150 facilities across California, would be a condition for receiving pay and
SEIU to conduct organizing campaigns and patients. compelled to join a union anointed by Tenet benefit increases
hold union elections at 28 Tenet hospitals in “Tenet is notorious for its commitment to qualify for pay increases,” DeMoro said. Bribing employees with the promise
California and two in Florida – with the bless- to profits regardless of the consequences for “Tenet should immediately provide the pay of increased pay solely based on join-
ing of Tenet’s hospital management. In return, the public’s well being,” said Nader. “As has increases and any other improvements prom- ing SEIU
and in advance of any employees voting for already occurred with other arrangements, ised in this back-room deal to its deserving Selecting for employees what union
the union, SEIU union locals at the Tenet SEIU’s back-room deal degrades indepen- employees – without conditions, and without they have to join and granting exclu-
hospitals are required to accept pre-negoti- dent professional responsibility of nurses denying their democratic rights to freely select sive favors to that union
ated wages in a four-year contract agreement for patient care protection.” a union of their choice,” DeMoro added. For Tenet, said DeMoro, “This appears
and give up their federally legislated right The Massachusetts Nurses Association Instead, Tenet employees would be locked to be a short-term public relations strategy
to strike. represents two Tenet-owned hospitals in into a long-term agreement with the main designed to drive up their stock prices with
The announcement of the deal comes after Massachusetts and is currently negotiating terms decided in advance in closed door the supposed promise of ‘labor peace.’ Per-
months of bad press and scrutiny of Tenet a new contract at Tenet-owned St. Vincent/ meetings with top management from both haps they are guided by illusions of hefty
Healthcare, including government probes Worcester Medical Center in Worcester. In Tenet and SEIU. profit taking for top executives who have
into allegations of widespread Medicare 2000, the nurses at the facility led a highly Further, there are no indications that seen their stock portfolios plummet in recent
fraud by the company, and is seen by many publicized 49-day strike over the issues of Tenet RNs, in particular, will be permitted to months due to numerous federal and state
as a way to squelch true organizing efforts at unsafe staffing and mandatory overtime, ulti- continue to exercise their patient advocacy investigations into Tenet’s billing practices
Tenet facilities, as well as to buy the silence mately winning landmark contract language obligations and be able to freely protect and patient care conditions.”
of long-time critics of the corporation. The to prohibit the practice at the facility. their patients. In the Kaiser Permanente “But it will be a failed strategy,” DeMoro
MNA also believes Tenet has cut the deal to “We believe employees should be free to deal with SEIU and AFSCME, which SEIU continued. “If Tenet is doing this for investor
work with SEIU as opposed to the powerful form unions with a representative of their cites as a model in its press release, it was security, investors should feel anything but
California Nurses Association, which has choosing, in an environment free from com- agreed that silence would be maintained on secure.”
negotiated much stronger agreements for pany coercion,” Pinkham said.
nurses in the state. Registered nurses at seven Tenet hos- When we fight for our rights . . . they call us ‘troublemakers.’
“This kind of back-room dealing by a union pitals in Los Angeles and Orange County Labor Notes 2003 Conference • September 12-14, Detroit
with the country’s most notorious anti-union recently petitioned the federal labor board Troublemaking in Troubled Times: Organizing To Win
and anti-patient corporation is nothing less for a representation election. That process,
Topics to include:
than shameful and represents a major setback which provides RNs at those hospitals with
• Rebuilding the labor movement when
for the labor movement in California,” said a genuine democratic choice and allows other the deck is stacked: Lessons from
Julie Pinkham, RN and executive director of unions to participate, supersedes the Tenet- labor history on how we’ve fought
through tough times.
• War: labor’s response and the impact
on all workers
• Fighting concessions: keeping our
Candidate Info healthcare and pensions
• Organizing strategies for the work-
place, community, and the unorga-
nized
• Alternative organizing: workers cen-
statements, educational resources, and provide valuable information to the MNA board of ters, non-majority unions and
alliances
directors as they decide the goals and missions of the MNA. • Building social movement unionism
here and abroad
The Congress on Health and Safety has done great work to make our work environment Sessions will be translated into Spanish.
safer for us and our patients. I want to share in that important work. Speakers to include:
I want to continue to serve you as a member of the Congress on Health and Safety. I would Charley Richardson, workplace technology expert, Military Families Against the
War; Bill Fletcher,TransAfrica Forum; Monica Santana, Latino Workers Center; Kate
very much appreciate your vote. Bronfenbrenner, Labor Education Research,
Cornell University; Ajamu Dillahunt, APWU,
Elizabeth A. O’Connor, RN, BSN Black Workers for Justice; Rick Kitchen, CAW
Milton, Mass. Local 127, Navistar; Maria Martinez, IBT Local
556; Rand Wilson, SEIU Local 285; Stephanie
Employment: Staff nurse, Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Luce, co-author, The Living Wage; Ken Riley,
International Longshoremen’s Association,
Education: Fitchburg State College, BSN, 1976. I’ll Be There!
“Some unions organize immigrant workers and Local 1422; Lucas Benitez, Coalition of
Past offices: Congress on Health & Safety; District 5 Board of Directors. say, ‘Now you have a voice.’ But it is important for
the workers to keep organizing.We need educa-
Immokalee Workers,Taco Bell Truth Tour; Mike
Parker, co-author, Democracy Is Power; Julie
• Staff nurse 26 years; all Brigham & Women’s Hospital tion on how to enforce our rights and contract.
Yes, we do have a voice. I’m going to the confer- McCall, Labor Heritage Foundation; Teofilo
• Health & safety has always been a main interest of mine ence to learn how to make them hear us.”
Marisela Garcia
Reyes,Transnationals Information Exchange;
Dan La Botz, author of A Troublemaker’s
I’ll Be There!
“At the 2001 Labor Notes Conference
• Ηave been a committee member of various hospital committees including: Air Quality SEMCOSH, Detroit, Mich. Handbook; Sara Mersha, DARE; Peter Olney, I was able to tell everyone about the
Institute for Labor and Employment; Baldemar Charleston 5. It was the place to meet
Committee & Needle Safety Advisory Committee Conference Information Velasquez, FLOC; Sam Smucker, AFL-CIO
activists from across the country who
would take the news about our struggle
• Currently Patient Care Safety Services Committee. Also a member of the DPH Needle- Early Registration Discount—by May 31!
Organizing Institute; Jeff Crosby, IUE-CWA back home to their workplaces and com-
Local 201, GE; Evert Hoogers, Canadian Union munities. I look forward to coming back
Place: Hyatt Regency Hotel, Dearborn, this September, because Labor Notes is
stick Advisory Committee Michigan (union hotel, near Detroit
of Postal Workers; and others from Europe, about fighting back and building solidarity.”
Asia, Mexico, and Latin America. . . Join these
• Regularly attend conferences related to health & safety sponsored by the follow-
Ken Riley
Metro Airport) activists and hundreds more in Detroit! ILA Local 1422, Charleston, SC
Phone: 313/593-1234, fax: 313/593-3366,
ing organizations: Health Care Without Harm; Toxics Action; Brigham & Women’s Email: www.dearborn.hyatt.com
REGISTER NOW!
Annual Conference on Occupational & Environmental Health; Alliance for Healthy Room Rates:* Single/Double $99,Triple
$124, Quad $149 Yes, I’ll be there! Enclosed is my registration fee of $100 ($150
Tomorrow; MASSCOSH; OSHA; MNA *You must mention “Labor Notes Canadian). $10 off for registration by May 31.
Conference” to receive these rates.
I hope to continue my work with the Congress on Health & Safety Registration: $100 ($150 Canadian). $10 Name ______________________________________________________________
OFF if registered by May 31. Includes
Victoria Brownstone Saturday Banquet. Some scholarships Address _______________________________________________________________________
Cambridge, Mass. available.
City___________________________State______Zip _________________
Airline Discount: Available on
Employment: Staff nurse, Newton Wellesley Hospital. Northwest/KLM/Continental code share Union _________________________________________________________________________
flights. Phone 800-328-1111 and mention
Education: University of Florida, BSN, 1967. Labor Notes Worldfile #RBAKX. Phone__________________________Email __________________________
Present offices: Newton Wellesley Hospital Bargaining Unit Negotiating Committee, 1995 Conference Schedule: Friday, Sept. 12,
1:00 p.m. – Sunday, Sept. 14, 3:00 p.m.
Please send me ___ brochures to recruit others in my area.
to present. Childcare (ages over 1 year) will be avail- Check enclosed Charge my: Visa MasterCard AmEx
able for a fee, if requested by Aug. 1. Acct. No._____________________________Exp. Date _____________
For more information: Labor Notes,
Center for Nursing Ethics & Human Rights 7435 Michigan Ave., Detroit, Michigan Signature _________________________________________________________
48210. Phone 313/842-6262. Fax 313/ Return to: Labor Notes, 7435 Michigan Ave., Detroit, MI 48210. Fax: 313/842-0227
No candidates. 842-0227.Web: www.labornotes.org.
REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.LABORNOTES.ORG
Page 18 Massachusetts Nurse June/July 2003
MNA Continuing Education Courses
Your source for career training and advancement
Mechanical Ventilation Emergency Medical Response
Description This course will provide an overview of mechanical ventilation types, to Hazardous Materials and Acts of Terrorism
modes and therapies. Course will also discuss the nursing management
of a patient on mechanical ventilation. Description The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is sponsor-
Speakers Carol Mallia, RN, MSN ing this program on emergency medical services in response to hazardous
Date August 19 materials and acts of terrorism. The program is specifically designed for
Time 5:00-9:00pm physicians, nurses, EMTs, and hospital support staff to provide educa-
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton tion in the treatment of individuals exposed to chemical and biological
Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 agents. The program will include identification of hazardous materials,
Contact hours 4.5 toxicological and biological effects of chemicals and biological acts of
MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723. terrorism. The chemical profile of common agents, the decontamination
procedures and personal protective equipment will be discussed. CDC
guidelines for surveillance of exposed nurses and other health care work-
Verbal Self Defense for Nurses ers and nursing interventions for patient care will be identified.
Speakers Anthony Fucaloro, EMT
Description This program is designed to provide the nurse with the basic skills for Capt. Lawrence P. Ferazani
managing conflict in the workplace environment. Conflict resolution Evie Bain, RN, MEd, COHN-S
strategies are discussed. The program will conclude with an interactive Dates Wednesday, Sept. 10
discussion of case scenarios related to conflict management. Time 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Speaker Joe-Ann Fergus, RN, BSN Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
Date Thursday, Sept. 4 Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65
Time 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Contact hours* 6.9
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Special notes Lunch provided. Class limited to 25.
Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727
Contact hours* 3.3
MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Advanced Cardiac Life Support
Interpreting Laboratory Values Description This American Heart Association course will provide information on the
clinical management of cardiac and respiratory emergencies through
Description This program will enhance the nurse’s ability to evaluate and determine case study approach. Course content includes assessment, arrhythmia
the clinical significance of laboratory values. Clinical case studies will be recognition, intubation, defibrillation and pharmacological interventions.
used to illustrate the relationship of laboratory values to patient conditions. This is a two-day certification and one-day recertification course. Recer-
Clinical management of abnormal laboratory values will be discussed tification candidates must present a copy of their current ACLS card at
Speaker Carol Mallia, RN, MSN the time of registration.
Date Tuesday, Sept. 9 Speakers Carol Mallia, RN, MSN, and other instructors for the clinical sessions
Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Dates Wednesdays, Oct.1 & 8
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Time 9:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
Contact hours* 4.1 Fee Certification: MNA members, $155; all others, $195
MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Recertification: MNA members, $125; all others, $165
Contact hours* 16 for certification program
MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723
Basic Dysrhythmia Interpretation
Description This course is designed for registered nurses in acute, sub acute and
Anatomy of a Legal Nurse Consultant
long-term care settings to learn cardiac monitoring and dysrhythmia inter-
Description This program will introduce the nurse to the scope of practice of the legal
pretation. Implications and clinical management of cardiac dysrhythmias
nurse consultant. The history and evolution of this important role, its
will also be discussed. Course will include a text book, calipers and require LEGAL NURSE
NURS multifaceted components—including practice environments, litigation pro-
study between sessions one and two. CONSULTANT
CONSULTANT
cess, case evaluation for compliance with standards of nursing/healthcare
Speaker Carol Mallia, RN, MSN
practice, nurse expert witness role, risk management and other important
Dates Tuesdays, Sept. 16 & 23
considerations—will be described. Professional certification will also be
Time 5:00- 9:00 p.m.
addressed.
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
Speakers Barbara J. Levin, BSN, RN, ONC, LNCC; Tammy J. Murphy, RN, LNC;
Fee MNA members, $90; all others, $125
Kelly W. Shanley, RN, LNC; Jane Mihalich, BSN, RN, LNCC; Erin Weber,
Contact hours* 9.0
BSN, RN, CCRN; Elaine Noren, BS, RN, LNCC
MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727
Dates Thursday, Oct. 9
Time 5:30- 8:30 p.m.
Peripheral I.V. Therapy Program Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
Fee MNA members, $65; all others, $95
Description This program introduces the RN to the theory of peripheral venipuncture. Contact hours* 3.2
It includes anatomy and physiology of the peripheral circulatory system, MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723v
fluid and electrolyte imbalance, infection control and legal issues of the
practice of venipuncture. Classroom instruction will include procedural Oncology Series for Nurses
demonstration and return demonstration on I.V. arms. Clinical experi-
ence will not be provided. Description A three-part series designed for nurses to increase their knowledge in
Speakers Mary Walsh, RN, BS, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist oncology nursing. The content of session one of the series will include an
Marilyn Bernard, RN, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist overview of cancer management, tumor physiology and staging, relevant
Date September 25 laboratory testing and treatment strategies and safe handling of neoplastic
Time 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. agents. Session two will discuss chemotherapy administration, classifica-
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton tion of chemotherapeutic agents, management of toxicities and adverse
Fee MNA members, $65; all others, $95 effects of treatments and oncological emergencies. Session three will
Special notes Certificate of attendance will be awarded include pain and symptom management, palliative care and an overview
MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 of hospice care.
June/July 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 19
Speaker Marylou Gregory-Lee, MSN, RNCS, OCN, Adult Nurse Practitioner Emergency Medical Response
Dates Tuesdays Oct. 21, 28 & Nov. 4
Time 5:30- 9:00 p.m. to Hazardous Materials and Acts of Terrorism
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
Fee Series: MNA members, $175; all others, $225 Description The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is sponsor-
Each session: MNA members, $65; all others, $95 ing this program on emergency medical services in response to hazardous
Contact hours* 3.6 per program. Total for series: 10.8 materials and acts of terrorism. The program is specifically designed for
Special note Completion of Session 1 is required for attendance at Session 2 physicians, nurses, EMTs, and hospital support staff to provide educa-
MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 tion in the treatment of individuals exposed to chemical and biological
agents. The program will include identification of hazardous materials,
Diabetes 2003: What Nurses Need to Know toxicological and biological effects of chemicals and biological acts of
terrorism. The chemical profile of common agents, the decontamination
Description Session 1: This session will discuss the pathophysiology and classifica- procedures and personal protective equipment will be discussed. CDC
tion of Diabetes Type 1 and 2. The nursing implications of blood glucose guidelines for surveillance of exposed nurses and other health care work-
monitoring will be discussed. Non-pharmacological interventions such as ers and nursing interventions for patient care will be identified.
exercise and meal planning will be explained. The program will conclude Speakers Anthony Fucaloro, EMT
with a discussion of oral pharmacological agents. Capt. Lawrence P. Ferazani
Session 2: This session is designed to provide the nurse with a compre- Evie Bain, RN, MEd, COHN-S
hensive update on insulin therapy. The nursing management of the newly Dates Wednesday, Dec. 3
diagnosed diabetic patient, both complicated and not, will be explored. Time 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Nursing management of the diabetic patient in the pre/post operative, Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
ambulatory care, home care and school setting will be discussed. Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65
Speaker Ann Miller, MS, RN, CS, CDE Contact hours* 6.9
Dates Session 1: Thursday, Oct. 23 Special notes Lunch provided. Class limited to 25.
Session 2: Thursday, Oct. 30 MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727
Time 5:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Wound Care—Dressing for Success
Fee MNA members, $65 all others, $95 (Each session)
Contact hours* 3.6 per session Description This program will provide a comprehensive overview of the factors
MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 affecting wound care and strategies for managing complex wounds. A
thorough review of wound products will enable the attendee to select the
optimal dressing based on clinical findings. New dimensions of wound
Nursing Management of Central Lines care, such as growth factors, hyperbaric oxygen, electrical stimulation,
cultured skin replacements and vacuum-assisted closure devices will
Description This program describes the multiple venous access devices used in also be discussed.
central line therapy. Indications for tunneled vs. non-tunneled lines and Speaker Carol Mallia, RN, MSN, CWOCN
potential complications will be discussed. The nursing management and Date Tuesday, Dec. 9
legal aspects in managing the care of these devices will be described in Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
detail. Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
Speakers Mary Walsh, RN, BS, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65
Marilyn Bernard, RN, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist Contact hours* 4.5
Date Thursday, Nov. 13 MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723
Time 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
Fee MNA members, $65 all others, $95 Important Information
Contact hours* 3.0
MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 for all courses
Registration Registration will be processed on a space available basis. Enroll-
Advanced Dysrhythmia Interpretation ment is limited for all courses.
Description This course is designed for nurses who have had a basic course in moni- Payment Payment may be made with MasterCard or Visa by calling MNA or
toring patients for cardiac rhythm disturbances and wish to enhance that by mailing a check to MNA, 340 Turnpike St., Canton, MA 02021
knowledge base with more complex monitoring of advance dysrhythmias.
The course will describe the EKG changes related to ischemia, injury, Refunds Refunds are issued up to two weeks before the program date
and infraction. The EKG abnormalities associated with toxic drug levels minus a 25% processing fee. No refunds are made less than 14
and electrolyte imbalances will also be described. The course will con- days before the program's first session or for subsequent ses-
clude with an overview of pacemakers and common pacemaker rhythm sions of a multi-day program.
disturbances.
Speaker Carol Mallia, RN, MSN Program MNA reserves the right to cancel programs when registration
Dates Tuesday, November 18 Cancellation is insufficient.
Time 5:00- 9:00 p.m.
*Contact Continuing Education Contact Hours are provided for all programs
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
Hours except “Advanced Cardiac Life Support” and “Anatomy of a Legal
Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65
Nurse Consultant” by the Massachusetts Nurses Association,
Contact hours* 3.2
which is accredited as a provider of continuing nursing education
MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723
by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on
Accreditation. Contact hours for “Advanced Cardiac Life Support”
and “Anatomy of a Legal Nurse Consultant” are provided by the
Cardiac and Pulmonary Pharmacology Rhode Island State Nurses Association, which is accredited as an
approver of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses
Description This program will provide nurses, from all clinical practice settings, a
Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
better understanding of how cardiac and pulmonary medications work.
The actions, indications, and nursing considerations will be discussed To successfully complete a program and receive contact
for the major categories of cardiac and pulmonary medications. hours, you must: 1) sign in, 2) be present for the entire time
Speaker Carol Mallia, RN, MSN period of the session and 3) complete the evaluation.
Dates Tuesday, Dec. 2
Chemical Scents may trigger responses in those with chemical sensitivity.
Time 5:00- 9:00 p.m.
Sensitivity Please avoid wearing scented personal products and refrain from
Place MNA Headquarters, Canton
smoking when you attend MNA continuing education programs.
Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65
Contact hours* 4.2
MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727
MNA Member Benefits Save You Money
Personal & Financial Services CELLULAR TELEPHONE SERVICE
CINGULAR WIRELESS .......................................................................................800-894-5500
PORTABLE HEALTH INSURANCE
Lowest rate possible $8.95/month plus $.37/minute off peak with free nights (7:00 PM to
ELLEN KAPLAN, GROUP HEALTH SPECIALISTS ..................800-604-3303 OR (508) 875-3288
6:59 AM – an MNA exclusive) & free weekends.
Managed care & comprehensive indemnity plans through Blue Cross/Blue Shield as well
as other carriers. JIFFY LUBE DISCOUNT
MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ........................................................800-882-2056, X726
PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
Obtain an MNA Discount card to receive 15% discount on automobile products &
NURSES SERVICE ORGANIZATION ............................. 800-247-1500 (8:00 AM TO 6:00 PM)
services.
Leading provider of professional liability insurance for nursing professionals with over
650,000 health care professionals insured. CONSUMER REFERRAL SERVICE
MASS BUYING POWER .....................................................................................781-829-4900
CREDIT CARD PROGRAM
A consumer referral service offering super savings on products & services. Visit
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protection. DISCOUNT ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES
TERM LIFE INSURANCE HOME ENTERTAINMENT DISTRIBUTORS ............................... 800-232-0872 OR 781-828-4555
LEAD BROKERAGE GROUP ...............................................................................800-842-0804 Home electronics & appliances available at discount prices for MNA members.
Term life insurance offered at special cost discounts. OIL NETWORK DISCOUNT
LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE COMFORT CRAFTED OIL BUYING NETWORK ....................................................800-649-7473
WILLIAM CLIFFORD .........................................................................800-878-9921, EXT. 110 Lower your home heating oil costs by 10 – 15%.
Flexible and comprehensive long-term care insurance at discount rates. WRENTHAM VILLAGE PREMIUM OUTLETS
SHORT TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE Simply present your valid MNA membership card at the information desk at the
NEW ENGLAND INSURANCE SPECIALIST LLC ....................... 800-959-9931 OR 617-242-0909 Wrentham Village Premium Outlets to receive a VIP coupon book offering hundreds of
Six-month disability protection program for non-occupational illnesses & accidents. dollars in savings.
LONG TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE SIGHT CARE VISION SAVINGS PLAN
LEAD BROKERAGE GROUP ...............................................................................800-842-0804 MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT .....................................................(800) 882-2056, X726
Provides income when you are unable to work due to an illness or injury. Obtain your Sight Care ID card to receive discounts on eye exams, eyeglasses & contact
lenses at Cambridge Eye Doctors or Vision World locations.
RETIREMENT PROGRAM
AMERICAN GENERAL FINANCIAL GROUP/VALIC..........................................800-448-2542 HEALTH CARE APPAREL
Specializing in providing retirement programs including 403(b), 401(k), IRA, NQDA, WORK ‘N GEAR DISCOUNT.......................... (800) WORKNGEAR (FOR STORE LOCATIONS)
Mutual Funds, etc. Fifteen percent discount off all regularly priced merchandise. Simply present your
valid MNA membership card to pick up your MNA/Work ‘n Gear discount card at any
DISCOUNT TAX PREPARATION SERVICE Massachusetts Work ‘n Gear store.
TAXMAN INC. ...........................................................................................800-7TAXMAN
20% discount on tax preparation services. Travel & Leisure
HERTZ CAR RENTAL DISCOUNT
Products & Services HERTZ ............................................................................................................800-654-2200
AUTO/HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE MNA members discounts range from 5 – 20% mention MNA discount CDP#1281147.
MANSFIELD DISCOUNT MOVIE PASSES
COLONIAL INSURANCE SERVICES ........................................ 800-571-7773 OR 508-339-3047 MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ........................................................800-882-2056, X726
WEST SPRINGFIELD Purchase discount movie passes for Showcase/National Amusements & AMC Theaters.
BATES FULLAM INSURANCE AGENCY .............................................................. 413-737-3539 Call to order over the telephone with Mastercard or Visa.
BOSTON SIX FLAGS NEW ENGLAND DISCOUNT PASSES
ROBERT S. CLARK INSURANCE AGENCY...........................................................800-660-0168 MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ........................................................800-882-2056, X726
LOWELL Purchase discount admission tickets for Six Flags New England ($22 per person).
JAMES L. CONNEY INSURANCE AGENCY .......................................................... 978 459-0505 DISCOUNT HOTEL & TRAVEL PRIVILEGES
WOBURN CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL (SOS PROGRAM).........................................800-258-2847
LENNON INSURANCE AGENCY .........................................................................781-937-0050 20% discount on participating Comfort, Quality, Clarion, Sleep, Econo Lodge, Rodeway
FALMOUTH & POCASSET & MainStay Suites, Inns & Hotels. Advanced reservations required mention SOS
MURRAY & MACDONALD INSURANCE SERVICES .............................................800-800-8990 Program #00801502. Membership in Guest Privileges Frequent Traveler Program.
TURNERS FALLS
PARTRIDGE ZCHAU INSURANCE AGENCY .........................................................413-863-4331 DISCOUNT TRAVEL PROGRAM TO FLORIDA, BAHAMAS & LAS VEGAS
Save up to 18% for all household members. For a no obligation quote visit EXECUTIVE TOUR & TRAVEL SERVICE......................................800-272-4707 (RESERVATIONS)
www.nursesinsurance.com 877-406-4836 (ATTRACTION TICKETS)
4 day/3 night discount on “Getaway Vacations” to Florida, Bahamas & Las Vegas. Visit
DISCOUNT DENTAL & EYEWEAR PROGRAM Web site at www.exectourtravel.com. Mention MNA group number 15187.
KENNETH FRANSSON OR DAVE FRASER ...........................................................800-697-4371
45% to 50% on dental services when utilizing network dentists. 10% to 60% discount CENTRAL FLORIDA AREA ATTRACTIONS
on eyewear through nationwide vision providers. Only $7.95/month individual or $8.95 THE OFFICIAL TICKET CENTER ........................................................................877-406-4836
family for MNA members. Discount admission to Orlando area attractions.
DIGITAL PAGERS UNIVERSAL STUDIOS MEMBER EXTRAS
INTERNET PAGING ...........................................................................................800-977-1997 Log onto the MNA Web site at www.massnurses.org and click on the Universal Studios
Discount digital pager program. Link to obtain special discount prices or e-mail member.extras@universalorlando.com for
information.
LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE SERVICE
ALLIANCE SERVICES ......................................................................................888-922-SAVE
4.9 cents/minute for long distance calls & 5% discount (vs. Verizon) on local service—7 MNA’s premier group benefits programs help you get more out of your membership
days a week, 24 hours a day! Prepaid discount international calling cards also available. and your hard-earned money! Take advantage of these special benefits specifically
designed for MNA members. For information on any of our discount programs,
contact the specific representative listed or call Chris Stetkiewicz in the MNA
For more information, call the MNA, 800-882-2056, x726. membership department, 800-882-2056, x726.
