UIC Hospital nurses authorize one-day strike
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Nurses at University of Illinois Hospital on the city's West Side have authorized a one-day strike for Tuesday, prompting the transporting of patients to other facilities.
UIC Hospital nurses carry picket signs in support of their bargaining team. The nurses' union has been negotiating with the hospital for a new contract for several months, but the contract expires next week and the nurses have authorized a one-day walkout for Tuesday if they are unable to reach a deal.
"All the patients are scared because they don't know what's going on and we've tried to calm them down and assure them we're here always for them," said nurse Terrence Ye.
Hospital officials, in apparent preparation for the walkout, transported patients all day Sunday from UIC to other healthcare facilities. Union leaders say there are more than 1,100 nurses there and they say one of the main sticking points in negotiations is the hospital's desire to be able to lay off a large number of them. They say it is about what is best for the patient.
"It's not money. We're fighting for our patients' rights," said nurse Janice Rodawold.
Hospital administrators have gone to court to insure nurses in critical areas will show up next week. In a statement they say, "The Circuit Court of Cook County granted the University's motion and nurses in nine specified departmental units will be required to fully staff these units during the strike. While we hope a strike will not occur, we have a responsibility to ensure our patients' continued care and safety."
Nurses' union leaders say privately they have already compromised quite a bit.
"Obviously the hospital is going to do what it needs to in order to prepare for the strike," said union negotiator Matt Bartmes.
Union leaders say the biggest issue is language they say the hospital wants, which would allow the hospital to lay off large numbers of nurses.
There is one more negotiating session scheduled for Monday, just before the contract expires.
