As we enter the summer season and the temperature in the 90’s, I hope that everyone is enjoying the weather and getting ready to take their well deserved vacations.

I would like to take this opportunity to apprise everyone of the recent accomplishments of  NAGE. We have successfully negotiated the process of doing the VET – PRO Credentialing Package. NAGE and management reached an agreement that is agreeable with the memberships and yet not compromising a safe patient care. This process is being mandated by VHA to insure that nurses are professionally competent in delivering care to our veterans  Another recent development is the VAS- TECH Scheduling Software that the VISN purchased and wants to pilot in the VAMHCS. NAGE met with management in May and have a Memorandum of Understanding signed on how to proceed with the implementation to insure that every nurse will be treated fairly and equitably in their work schedules.

 

NAGE had been talking to upper management in increasing the Uniform Allowance to help in the increasing economy. As of this date, management is in the process of making it happen.  Another issue is the functional statement of a Charge Nurse that NAGE has been asking management to develop in the past 3 years. The Chief Nurse Executive is willing to evaluate this issue.

There are 2 initiatives that the VAMHCS is piloting that affects patient care and safety. They are the Ticket To Ride and Rapid Response Team. So far, the input that we gathered are very mix feelings among the staff. Shortage of staff nurses and the continuing dissatisfactions are the main factors that hinder the success of any initiative.

Lately, NAGE has noticed that management has been implementing a more severe disciplinary actions that is not consistent to the charges. We will continue to monitor it and if needed, NAGE is prepared to take the appropriate action so everyone is treated fairly .

  

                                        

                                        Evelyn