[SMK1]

nice to learn more about a great member!

[geekgolightly]

i read your posts every time i come here, spacenurse.

[Spidey's mom]

Hey spacenurse - California girls rock!


It was very nice to read more about you - these threads are such a great idea.

steph

[pickledpepperRN]

geekgolightly:
I learn from and empathize with your posts. You prove your caring patient advocacy. I think we've had many similar nursing experiences.

Steph! They only wish they could be California girls like us - tall, thin, blond, always at the beach!

[av8er7]

Hey Spacenurse! That is awesome--you being a part of the Safe Staffing Law--great achievement. Moreover, having the fight to put 12 years into it too. How did you feel upon the law passing?

[pickledpepperRN]

I was one of thousands.
In October of 1999 when the governor signed the law I thought it would go into effect in January.
Well we had more letter writing, town hall meetings, and three hearings first.
Then the Hospital Association filed a lawsuit claiming they didn't know what "At all times" meant!
They thought patients sleep at night. Or get well at 7:00 pm and become ill again at 7:00 am.
We had to go to class and then educate our colleagues.

It sure is worth it. Knowledge plus unified action on the unit is power. Our patients benefit. And we are less stressed and able to care for our patients like we learned to in nursing school.

As Guilda Radners character said, "It's always something."
But so worth it!

NOW for other states to enact laws to staff by acuity with ratios as the minimum.
And other countries (Canada next?)

We need to let the people who will or may be our patients know what is going on. No more hiding dirty laundry.
No more protecting the greedy.

[av8er7]

Spacenurse I am totally awestruck reading your reply. I'm also marveling at your diligence--I'm an RN student graduating this May/07. Reading posts like yours gives me some fresh zest (if you will) to do the same things. But I am up here in Idaho, a state one must be careful not to tread too harshly. Idaho is a right to work state, resulting in businesses being able to can a person for just about anything. However, I do know there are ways to still get through.
Thanks for your words,.......av8er

[kontakt]

Spacenurse -

I enjoyed reading your bio. Thank you for sharing a bit about yourself. You have been and will always be one of my favorite heroes found here at Allnurses.

Peace and God Bless You!

[ingelein]

Spacenurse,I am privleged to be in your company, thanks again, ever so much.

[prmenrs]

That staffing law was an uphill battle, and still is! How empowering to be a part of that! Fantastic job, Spacenurse.

I am glad you are part of our online community. Thank you for your work towards bettering outcomes for our patients, and a better environment for ourselves!