Do I Need to be in the UNION ??

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Hi all,

Do you guys pay the dues to be in the union at your hospital? The place im going to work offers it. they say you dont have to pay and the benefits still apply to you but you just cant vote. Im a new grad so i have no experience to go on with this. What do you think?

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I would pay it if I had a choice.

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Specializes in Trauma, Teaching.

The union is what stands up for you when you need it. The union is what has negotiated the contract and working conditions you have, without you having to fight for it individually now.

If you enjoy the benefits, you should help shoulder the burden; otherwise you are catching a free ride on the backs of those who are in the union. The only reason not to join is for personal philosophic reasons against unionism to begin with, in which case, why would you be working in this hospital?

Having a voice in the union negotiations, through your vote at the minimum, gives you power; instead of someone else making all your decisions for you.:pumpiron:

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Specializes in NICU.

I think ............. YES!

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

I agree with the above. The union voice is what helps my facility to have much better pay than other area facilities that are much bigger than us. I joined as soon as I got my license. I didn't want to be a "free-loader" so to speak.

Not only that, but by being in the union, I get at pennies per payperiod; if I have a problem, I have the union lawyer at my service; I can file a grievence if there is a problem.

I say Join!

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Specializes in ICU.

part of what attracted me to the job at my hospital was the union.

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Specializes in Critical Care,Recovery, ED.

In addition to the above. I would recommend becoming active in the union. It will be very educational for you to learn how unions work, how they interact with the employer and how politically involved they are. It is through plitical action that laws regarding nursing are influenced. Laws like nurse to patient ratios, mandatory OT, et. al. are influenced and created.

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Specializes in Er and PICU.

as a chief steward at my hospital, I appreciate all the backing the your respective unions have from y'ones!!!!!!!!!!:yeah:

I really don't have any thing else to add to this thread that everyone else has already stated. IF you are still undecided go ahead and talk with one of your stewards and if any nurses that can remember how the work environment was prior to the union and I guarantee that you will see the good that your union does for you and everyone else.

Just rememberwith more members your voice is louder and with a louder voice you can get more results!!:D

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Thanks to all who replied. Well, I guess ill be joining the union

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Thanks everyone! ill be joining my union!

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