I started this thread simply because it was a very hot topic on another thread where someone wanted some advice... I hope to generate some friendly discussions regarding experiences and opinions. I don't want to get blasted for starting this, no personal attacks please.
In the news for the last two weeks, we have seen evidence of unions in WI, IN, and OH fighting against enacting "right to work" laws, and limitations on collective bargaining. I believe that some unions have run amock, and even considered going to demonstrate against the unions.
This being said, the original intent of the unions was to protect workers, and I have never seen a group of employees more systematically suppressed than nurses. Mandatory overtime, being "called-off" without pay, being on-call without compensation, having systemic unsafe workplace practices, constantly worrying about workplace violence, fear of reprisal for whistle-blowing, and dealing with unsafe staffing levels seems enough to make all of us want to throw in the towel. It honestly makes me wonder why there isn't a national nursing union.
So, what are your thoughts? I know that some have fought this battle, and won. Some have fought a good battle, but lost. Have you been pleased with your decision to unionize?
Is there any good that can come out of it? Will it advance the profession of nursing? Will it stretch our already broken health care system over the edge?
I'm gonna run now.... I hate worms and fear that I may have opened a huge can of them.