Union Representative question

Overland1, RN · Aug 5, 2015

I am a member of our hospitals union, and the email came out that they are looking to do elections for new representatives. This peeked my curiosity. So I wanted to ask, what is it like to be a union representative (the good, bad and ugly).

It can be a stepping stone to a higher level job. Be a union "steward" or representative, then (after a while) move on to state union rep. That is where the money is. I know of a guy who did this many years ago (teachers union) who ended up with a Ferrari and was able to get into bed with all sorts of useful folks. He retired and is doing OK now. It's like a gift that keeps on giving.

kspi355 · Aug 15, 2015

I think TM+2's question was more about what the responsibilities of a Union Rep/Steward were.

TM+2 I think it depends partly on the contract your union nurses operate under, but a lot of it is what you're willing to do. I'd get on LinkedIn and look for a Union Rep for NYSHA, CNU, or SEIU and ask. I'd also ask at your facility if you guys are already organized. Honestly I don't know but I'm curious myself.

mdfog10 · Sep 23, 2015

In my union , I as a nurse rep do the following: educate nurses about our contract, educate nurses about our union Professional Practice committee that meets monthly and can bring the CNO in to deal with practice and safety issues, educate nurses about our union form (assignment despite objection ) to document potentially unsafe, unsafe situations and insufficient staffing, I answer questions and offer support on how to handle clinical situations and responses to management. I help nurses advocate for their role as patient advocate and their rights as a union member. As a nurse rep I have also been a member on the bargaining team, helping to negotiate our contract with the hospital. and on and on....