Nurses Picket Butler Memorial Hospital for Safer Conditions Amid Contract Talks

Nurses at Butler Memorial Hospital in Pennsylvania are staging an informational picket to demand improved safety measures amidst rising violence in healthcare settings. The Pennsylvania Association of Staff Nurses & Allied Professionals has reported alarming incidents, including a nursing assistant being assaulted, highlighting the need for security enhancements like metal detectors at all hospital entrances. With ongoing contract negotiations, nurses feel that management is neglecting their safety and attempting to undermine their contracts. Picketing is set for multiple times throughout the day, with elected officials expected to show support. The nurses emphasize that safety is non-negotiable, advocating for a united front to protect both healthcare workers and patients. In a response, the Independence Health System stated their commitment to dialogue with the nurses to address concerns and ensure safety.