April 2003

Inside… Single-payer health care: Why are we cutting Medicaid? ....2

President’s column: Where we are headed...... 3 THE NEWSLETTER OF THE MASSACHUSETTS NURSES ASSOCIATION ■ www.massnurses.org ■ VOL. 74 NO. 3 MNA joins new coalition to save Hundreds gather to celebrate MNA’s 100th anniversary Worcester State Hospital...... 3 More than 400 nurses from all corners of current crisis in nursing and patient safety MNA on Beacon Hill: the commonwealth took part in an historic in the state. Upon entering the hall, nurses Safe staffi ng & quality care...... 4 three-part celebration on February 26 to mark were each given a single white carnation. The the 100th Anniversary of the Massachusetts carnations symbolized nurses’ commitment MNA on Beacon Hill ...... 4 Nurses Association. The MNA, the largest to providing quality patient care, as well as and oldest association for registered nurses those nurses who have left the profession Capitol Hill Watch: in Massachusetts, used the occasion to honor because of untenable staffi ng conditions. Bush’s Medicare proposal ...... 4 its past, celebrate its many accomplishments Higgins introduced the ceremony by and to point to present and future challenges saying, “Nurses are here to tell you that faced by the profession. while we are proud of our history and the Political Pulse: The event was kicked off with a special profession we have created to care for the Sen. Jarrett Barrios...... 5 ceremony and demonstration in the Gard- public, you need to know that we are fi nd- registration for nurses. It was here that the ner Auditorium at the Massachusetts State ing it more diffi cult to meet the legal, ethical Safe staffi ng update ...... 6 nurses made their case for the creation of an House. In her introductory remarks, MNA and educational standards that defi ne qual- amendment to improve the Nurse Practice President Karen Higgins underscored the ity nursing care. The promise of quality care MNA bill statements take Act which governs nursing practice, and it reasoning behind the decision to begin the made to the public through the establishment on a new look ...... 7 was here in 1964 that nurses testifi ed and festivities in that location. of our profession and the laws that govern it won support for a law granting nurses the “The birth, growth and continued devel- cannot be kept given the current conditions Photos from MNA’s 100-year right to pursue collective bargaining in the opment of registered nurses and of all created by the health care industry.” Commonwealth.” anniversary celebration ...... 8-9 professional nursing is directly tied to and Higgins then called for the nurses to exit Underscoring the partnership between leg- dependent on laws and regulations that the hall, and as they did, they took their car- islators and nurses, Rep. Peter J. Koutoujian, A century of caring ...... 10 have been sponsored by, lobbied for and nations and placed them in a basket held by House Chair of the Joint Committee on Health championed by the Massachusetts Nurses Rep. Christine Canavan, RN, herself an MNA Care, read the text of a legislative resolution Benefi ts corner ...... 11 Association in concert with our elected lead- member and the lead sponsor for legislation passed in both houses of the legislature to ers in this building,” Higgins explained. “In fi led by MNA to regulate RN-to-patient ratios recognize the accomplishments and contribu- Health & safety briefs ...... 12 this hall, Gardner Auditorium, many impor- in Massachusetts hospitals. tions of the MNA to the Commonwealth of tant hearings on the issues confronting nurses “In placing these carnations in the hands Massachusetts. Another view: Debate smallpox over the last 100 years have been held. It was of the legislature, we are once again express- This was followed by a special “carnation vaccine on its merits...... 12 here that testimony was given time and again laying” ceremony to call attention to the to convince legislators to create a board of See Anniversary, Page 8 So you think it’s safe at work? ...13 MNA reaffi rms stance MNA prepares battle to preserve services, protect workers Honor your peers...... 14 on smallpox vaccine Romney budget attacks state RNs MNA consent-to-serve form ...... 15 During its March meeting, the MNA’s Smallpox Vaccination Task Force revisited and health care professionals New staff members in MNA several of the issues outlined in its position communications department .....15 statement regarding the DPH’s smallpox On Feb. 26 Governor Mitt Romney fi led unit pre-event vaccination plan for health care his budget proposal for fi scal year 2004. The Elimination of the Civil Service system MNA nominations & election workers. According to Denise Garlick, RN proposal represents a wholesale attack on the Repeal of the Pacheco privatization law policies & procedures...... 16-17 and the task force’s interim chairperson, state’s human services programs and the state State employee health insurance and MNA President Karen Higgins, RN, the employees who provide these services. • The governor’s proposal is to drasti- MNF golf tournament ...... 17 majority of positions outlined in the state- The governor’s proposals include: cally alter the current 85 percent/15 ment continue to be issues of the highest Closure and downsizing of mental health percent contribution structure. His Continuing Education ...... 18-19 priority for the organization — including and mental retardation facilities proposal would have the state pay those related to patient safety, furloughing • Immediately planned for closures no less than 75 percent of the cheap- MNA member benefi ts ...... 20 and education. include Worcester State Hospital est plan available. If someone chose a “For the sake of patient safety, our big- and Fernald Developmental Center more costly plan, the state would pay gest area of concern continues to be that • Long-term plans for closure of all no more than the dollar amount that those who are vaccinated should be fur- DMR facilities equals its contribution to the cheapest loughed,” said Higgins. “Removing health Collective Bargaining plan. In addition, it appears that the care workers from the workplace while • Dismantling of the Chapter 150E, Governor’s proposal may eliminate For the latest they have a live virus and are in danger of the public sector collective bargain- the family plan option. developments exposing others is essential, particularly for ing labor law The MNA is engaged in an aggressive impacting nurses, those patients most susceptible to serious • Elimination of seniority campaign to preserve services and protect complications.” • Elimination of bumping rights workers rights and benefi ts. As part of this visit the Higgins also emphasized that nurses • Implementation of a comprehensive campaign the MNA is working with a coali- MNA Web site, should be compensated for their time and management-rights clause tion of unions to facilitate a series of regional www.massnurses.org hardship if the smallpox vaccine causes • With this proposal, the only meetings with legislators entitled, “The complications, and that MNA members issues left on the bargaining Romney Budget: Beyond the Headlines.” and the general public need to be further table would be wages and some The meetings are designed to educate the educated about the overall vaccination pro- benefi ts legislature about the magnitude of these • Elimination of ‘supervisory’ employ- proposals and what they mean to those we See Smallpox, Page 13 ees from the collective bargaining serve and represent. Page 2 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003

Nurses’ Guide to Single Payer Reform Why are we cutting Medicaid and wasting $16 billion of ‘health care’ dollars By Margaret O’Malley, R.N. Medicare really is. Medicare guarantees care care and long waiting lists. These problems simply unsustainable; 2) only a single payer Chair, MASS-CARE, the Massachusetts Cam- to over 40 million elders and disabled and exist in many systems, including our own. system can achieve universal coverage. paign for Single Payer Health Care keeps its administrative costs less than 5% But you never hear complaints of Medicare The time to do this is now. It won’t be easy Massachusetts can afford to guarantee of overall expenses. Even though it covers a care being rationed. with the infl uence of big money in politics health care to everyone in our state without population more likely to get sick, Medicare’s The single payer movement is growing but it is possible if we act together and insist spending more than we do today. The cov- annual increase in expenditures grows at a rapidly. In January, unions at General Elec- that government fulfi lls its fundamental role: erage would include prescriptions, choice rate less than the private insurance market, tric called a nation-wide strike to protest to protect our health and safety. of doctor and better care. How is that pos- which vigorously excludes anyone likely to higher health care costs for workers. In The next time an elected offi cial, or your sible? need care. Lynn, the local union held a rally, not only employer, or a health care CEO, or your A recent report commissioned by the Mas- Massachusetts legislators can create a for its members but for the community as a newspaper blames high health care costs, sachusetts Legislature found that nearly 40 state-based single payer system that provides whole, to learn how all kinds of people are or “lavish” benefi ts, as the reason for more cents of every dollar we spend for “health health care to all 6 million residents through suffering from our health care “system.” cuts in care, ask them to justify why we all care” goes to administrative overhead! That the passage of the Massachusetts Health Care The outcome of the event was a pledge must bear a $16 billion burden of subsidizing is appalling given how many of us have inad- Trust, Senate Bill 686. from one and all to insist on passage of a a few insurance and pharmaceutical giants equate health care or are paying more than we Elimination of private insurer costs would single payer system, fi rst in this state, and while the rest of us must do without. And can afford for what we do get. account for only part of the savings. As then for the nation. then ask them to help us pass S.686 to use We can stop blaming the poor, the elderly, the single statewide buyer of all drugs and The Legislative report cited above made that money for a more sensible health care the disabled, or the kids. The costs of insur- medical supplies, the state could negotiate two conclusions about health care in Mass- system for us all. ance bureaucracies and the unbridled profi ts fair prices, allowing for reasonable profi t for achusetts: 1) action by state government This article originally appeared in the Glouces- of pharmaceutical companies are the real manufacturers. That’s what’s done in Canada, is necessary because our current system is ter Daily Times. “budget busters” for taxpayers, for employ- where U.S.-manufactured drugs cost 40-50 ers, and for our own households. percent less than they do here. The govern- Total spending on health care in Massachu- ment buys in bulk and passes the lower costs setts in 2002 was $41.5 billion. That means that along to pharmacies and hospitals. about $16 billion is available for a far better Early preventive care and attention to social value: covering everyone and stabiliz- public health issues, like indoor air qual- ing the fi nances of essential institutions like ity, save billions more. Finally, anticipating our community hospitals. and planning for future health needs targets How? Through a “single payer” system of resources wisely and prevents the wild fl uc- insurance, a system like Medicare in which tuations of an unregulated market which not the government is the single payer of all bills. only wastes money but endangers lives. The Of course Medicare must be updated to cover sudden onset of the industry-created nurse prescriptions. But it isn’t only seniors who “shortage” being just one case in point. need prescription coverage; we all do. People are scared off of single payer by pre- It’s important to remember how effi cient dictions of “rationing,” denial of expensive

Donate to MASS-CARE MASS-CARE is in a position to seize the opportunity of the current fi scal crisis to persuade our legislators that the time has come to fundamentally reform our state’s health system in order to provide universal coverage and save money in the process. We cannot afford to lose our one staff person who has helped MASS- CARE build the momentum we now experience. That, however, is our fate within just a month if we cannot raise money. MNA, as an organization, has donated generously in the past. Now the appeal is to all of us as individuals. Please send in the most generous donation you can afford to: Reprinted with permission of Dan Wasserman and The Boston Globe MASS-CARE 43 Winter St., 7th fl oor Massachusetts Health Care Trust updated sponsor list Boston, MA 02108 Are your legislators listed? If so, thank (D-Acton); Christopher Fallon, (D-Malden); To make your donation tax-deductible, make the contribution to “Universal them. If not, ask them to support S.686, Mark Falzone, (D-Saugus); Michael Festa, Health Care Education Fund,” the tax-exempt affi liate of MASS-CARE. which will have a hearing on Oct. 8. (D-Melrose); Gloria Fox, (D-Roxbury); Patri- Legislative lead sponsors: Senate: Steve cia Haddad, (D-Somerset); Patricia Jehlen, Quotes of the month Tolman, (D-Brighton). House: Frank Hynes, (D-Somerville); Louis Kafka, (D-Sharon); “What is clear to me, based on the experiences of the last several decades, is that (D- Marshfi eld). Rachel Kaprielian, (D-Watertown); Jay when the windows of opportunity for change present themselves, success will go Senate: Jarrett Barrios, (D-Cambridge)); Kaufman, (D-Lexington); Kay Khan (D) to those ready and able to seize the opportunity to implement changes that they Cynthia Creem, (D-Newton); Susan Fargo, Newton); Peter Kocot, (D-Northampton); have been working toward and thinking about for a long time. It (universal health (D-Lincoln); Robert Havern, (D-Arlington); Stephen Kulik, (D-Turners Falls); Elizabeth insurance in US) is going to happen someday, but it will be diffi cult for anyone to Brian Joyce, (D-Milton); David Magnani, (D- Malia, (D-Jamaica Plain); Jim Marzilli, (D- predict precisely when. So advocates had better be prepared.” Framingham); Thomas McGee, (D-Lynn); Joan Arlington); James Miceli (D0, Wilmington); — Bruce Vladek, PhD, American Journal of Public Health, January 2003, editorial Menard, (D-Somerset); Andrea Nuciforo, (D- Shirley Owens-Hicks, (D-Roxbury); Mat- Pittsfi eld); Robert O’Leary, (D-Cummaquid); thew Patrick, (D-Falmouth); Anne Paulsen, “Good news. There is now a way to exit the nightmare of a collapsing health Marc Pacheco, (D-Taunton); Pamela Resor, (D- (D-Belmont); Douglas Petersen, (D-Marble- system. We no longer have to put up with the outrageous costs that keep millions Acton); Stan Rosenberg, (D-Northampton); head); Cheryl Rivera, (D-Springfi eld); Byron of Americans from receiving medical care and needed medications. Nor will tens Charles Shannon, (D-Winchester); Dianne Rushing, (D-South End); Frank Smizik, (D- of thousands of families have to declare bankruptcy over medical bills. Universal Wilkerson, (D-Boston). (16 of 40) Brookline); Joyce A. Spiliotis, (D-Peabody); national health insurance (single payer) takes the resources we have in place and House: Ruth Balser, (D-Newton); Debo- Karen Spilka, (D-Ashland); Ellen Story, (D- deals with them in an intelligent manner, excluding the tragic hemorrhage of rah Blumer, (D-Framingham); Mark Carron, Amherst); David B. Sullivan, (D-Fall River); resources into non-health entities.” (D-Southbridge); Edward Connolly, (D-Ever- Benjamin Swan, (D-Springfi eld); Kathleen M. ett); Robert Correia, (D-Fall River); Michael Teahan, (D-Whitman); Timothy J. Toomey, — Quentin Young, M.D., on the fi ling in Congress of “The United States National Health Costello, (D-Newburyport); Paul Demakis, Jr., (D-Cambridge); Anthony J. Verga, (D- Insurance Act” (D-Back Bay); Paul Donato, (D-Medford); Gloucester); Martin Walsh (D-Dorchester); For more info, www.pnhp.org/nhibill/nhi_execsumm.html. Christopher Donelan, (D-Orange); Carol Steven Walsh (D-Lynn); Alice K. Wolf, (D- Donovan, (D-Woburn); James Eldridge, Cambridge). April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 3

President’s column As we celebrate 100 years: where we are, where we’re headed

By Karen Higgins somewhere in this the front lines of health care to meet the needs monwealth. MNA President state overwhelmed of patients 24-hours a day, seven days a week. So I am thrilled tonight, and I am hopeful My column this month is derived from the and exhausted, But we cannot help patients and clients if they tonight, and I am energized tonight to be speech I delivered at Faneuil Hall in celebration struggling to pro- do not have access to the care we deliver. That where we are at this time in our history. of our 100 Year Anniversary on Feb. 26. My vide care to eight is why today, tomorrow and for as long as In honor of those great nurses who came remarks followed the showing of a video tracing patients when they it takes, this organization will fi ght for the before us and for those nurses to whom we the 100 years of MNA history. My presentation should only have creation of a single payer health care system will pass on this great profession, I would like was meant to share with the audience, and now four. that will provide universal access to quality to call upon all of you to do as they did in that you, where we are today and where we need to As we celebrate health care for every resident. fi rst meeting in this building more than 100 head as an organization. here tonight, there We are proud to have spent the last 100 years ago today. I will ask you to voice your It is now 2003, George W. Bush is president, is a patient lying years caring for the citizens of the Common- commitment in this movement to the work America once again is poised to go to war, the in a bed, in pain, wealth, serving as key strands in the health our generation must do. commonwealth is in the midst of its worst pushing a call Karen Higgins care safety net. But we cannot maintain that Will you join me and the MNA in our com- budget crisis in decades, and we at the Mas- button, and wait- safety net when it is being shredded by mitment to pass staffi ng legislation so we can sachusetts Nurses Association are stronger ing and waiting, budget cuts and an unwarranted assault on provide safe patient care? Let me hear you! than at any time in our history. for their nurse. There are patients waiting for core services. Will you join me and the MNA to assure I am proud tonight to stand before you hours, sometimes days, in emergency rooms The movement begun by our predecessors health care for all of our citizens? and with you as a member of this incredible — unable to be admitted because there are no 100 years ago indeed grows more necessary So now let me conclude by fi rst asking organization. Tonight you have seen that nurses to staff the beds. by the minute. those among us who have partnered with without the MNA, there would not be reg- And as we celebrate tonight there may be Tonight we will rise to recommit the chal- us in the past and our elected leaders who istered nurses, there would not be a uniform patients whose conditions will worsen, and lenge. We are a new and independent MNA, have joined us tonight to please stand and be curriculum to educate nurses, there would because a nurse cannot be there to identify with an energized membership and unyield- recognized for their support and assistance in not be a Nurse Practice Act to regulate what subtle but important symptoms, patients may ing commitment to do the work that needs the past and in the months to come. Would nurses do, and we would not have the right die needlessly, for lack of timely attention and to be done. the legislators and offi cials who are here with to unionize, protecting ourselves and our intervention by a registered nurse. We have a clear voice and greater resources us tonight please stand and be recognized by patients. While we are proud to be registered nurses, at our disposal to win the struggle of our the nurses in attendance. We have so much to be proud of and thank- we cannot fulfi ll our role and honor our obli- nursing generation. We are building a new And fi nally, as they did at that fi rst meet- ful for tonight, and yet, our generation’s gations to the public unless, and until, we national organization, the American Associa- ing 100 years ago today, I ask all those in work is not done. In fact, as I stated and have achieved the legal right to practice in tion of Registered Nurses – an organization of attendance who support the continued mis- you demonstrated earlier this evening at the an environment that allows us to provide safe, like-minded nurses committed to advocating sion and struggle of the MNA for justice for State House, there is still much work to be quality nursing care. We need and must win for patients and to the mobilization of nurses patients and for nurses to please stand in done to allow registered nurses to practice passage of legislation to regulate the number on the front lines of health care. demonstration of your support for the work consistently with the legal mandates that our of patients a nurse can safely care for, and we We have built stronger alliances with that will be done. Please rise, take your Thun- predecessors fought so hard to create. As we must do it now. the public and the legislature working to derstix and make some thunder for the future gather here tonight, there are nurses working We are honored to be the professionals on ensure safe quality care to all in the Com- of nursing! MNA joins newly formed coatition to save Worcester State Hospital A campaign has been launched to save Worcester State Hospital. Representatives of the Massachusetts Nurses Association joined state Rep. Vincent A. Pedone (D-Worcester), who hosted a rally and press conference last month to announce the formation of the Coalition to Save Worcester State Hospital, an alliance of citizens, community members, family members of patients of Worcester State Hospital, nurses, allied health professionals and employees of the hospital, local, state and federal political leaders, mental health advo- cates (including the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally ill), and labor and community groups. The coalition is fi ghting to preserve the vital and comprehen- sive mental health services Worcester State Hospital provides to patients and families struggling to manage the most acute and debilitating forms of mental illness. At the event, Pedone announced that he will propose an amendment to the state budget to prevent the closing of the facil- ity, which is the oldest and most respected psychiatric hospital in the nation. In addition to announcing the fi ling of the amendment, the coalition also launched a petition drive throughout the state to gather signatures in support of the campaign. Worcester State Hospital is a state-of-the-art facility providing services to patients from throughout Central Massachusetts and from as far away as the New York border. To download a copy of the petition for distribution in your community, visit the MNA Web site at www.massnurses.org and click on the link to the page for the Coali- tion to Save Worcester State Hospital. State Sen. Harriet Chandler speaks at the rally while Rep. Vincent A. Pedone looks on. Page 4 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003

MNA on Beacon Hill

Health care education, prevention, coverage and ISSN 0163-0784 USPS 326-050 treatment programs under attack President: Karen Higgins Vice President: Patrick Conroy By Charles Stefanini Assault Nurse cit for fi scal year 2004, no stone will be left Secretary: Sandy Eaton MNA Legislative Director Examiner program unturned. Advocates must now work harder Treasurer: Janet Gale The state’s fi scal crisis is having a dramatic and school nursing than ever to educate decision makers on impact on health care education, prevention, programs, as well the virtues of and investments in their District Directors, Labor: District 1: coverage and treatment programs. The MNA as awareness/ programs. Patricia Healey, Irene Patch; District 2: has long advocated and fought for preven- treatment pro- The Prescription Advantage program, Edith Harrigan, Mary Marengo; District tion, coverage, education and treatment grams focused a prescription drug coverage initiative for 3: Stephanie Stevens, Tina Russell; programs that mirrored the old phrase, on hepatitis C, seniors, has been virtually eliminated with the District 4: Jeanine Hickey, vacant; Dis- “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound colorectal cancer, Romney budget proposal. Other programs trict 5: Barbara Norton, vacant. of cure.” Investment in education, preven- smoking cessation have been cut and MassHealth/Medicaid tion and coverage pays large dividends in and prevention, faces greater cuts after 50,000 residents were Directors (At-Large/Labor): Sandy the long run. and tobacco con- eliminated from the program last year. Ellis, Denise Garlick, Kate Maker, Over the years, nurses and other health trol and education. Charles Stefanini We urge all members to call their state Sharon McCollum, Beth Piknick, care advocates have been successful in These programs legislators and urge their protection of vital Elizabeth Sparks, Jan Spicer. expanding access to and funding for impor- are now in jeopardy. As state leaders work public health services in education, preven- Directors (At-Large/General): Rick tant health care programs such as the Sexual feverishly to close a $3 billion budget defi - tion, coverage and treatment. Lambos, Jim Moura, Margaret O’Malley, Deb Rigiero, Jeannine Williams, Nora President Bush outlines ‘draconian’ Medicare reform proposal Watts, vacant. In his State of the Union address on Jan. 28, viduals will die. Thanks to the Massachusetts to pay for vaccination programs, and for Labor Program Member: Beth Gray- President Bush outlined a draconian Medicare and California Nurses Associations, as well as immediate medical care for anyone injured Nix reform proposal that would force seniors and other unions representing health care work- by the vaccine. Current co-sponsors of H.R. Executive Director: Julie Pinkham people with disabilities to enroll in private ers, serious concerns were raised about the 865 are Reps. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Sherrod Editor: David Schildmeier managed care plans if they wanted prescrip- plan and revisions are being made. Brown (D-Ohio), Lois Capps (D-Calif.), Jane Production Manager: Erin M. Servaes tion drug coverage. Even Bush’s staunchest On March 5, the Bush administration pro- Harman (D-Calif.) and Bob Wexler (D-Fla.) in Photographer: Rosemary Smith allies on Capitol Hill quickly started taking posed a limited compensation plan for health whose home state several nurses have already potshots at the idea. In a Chicago Tribune edi- care workers who have adverse reactions to had severe reactions to the vaccine. Mission Statement: The Massachu- torial board meeting, House Speaker Dennis setts Nurse will inform, educate and Hastert (R-Ill.) admitted that he told the Single payer bill introduced meet member needs by providing timely president that his Medicare reform proposal is In early February, Rep. John Conyers information on nursing and health care “unworkable.” Hastert said he told the presi- (D-Mich.), ranking member of the House Judi- issues facing the nurse in the Common- dent, “I don’t think you can do it humanely. Capitol Hill ciary Committee, and Rep. Jim McDermott wealth of Massachusetts. Through the I don’t think you can do it politically. I don’t (D-Wash.), a member of the House Ways and editorial voice of the newsletter, MNA think it’s practical.” The powerful chair of the Watch Means Health subcommittee, introduced H.R. seeks to recognize the diversity of its Senate Finance Committee Charles Grassley 676, a bill that would create a national single- membership and celebrate the con- (R-Iowa) said that the Bush administration payer health system. The press conference tributions that members make to the has “botched” the Medicare prescription included Physicians for a National Health nursing profession on the state, local drug proposal. the vaccine. Participants in the smallpox vac- Plan Drs. David Himmelstein and Quentin and national levels. In the face of such criticism, the adminis- cination plan or people who contract a related Young, former JAMA editor Marcia Angell Published nine times annually, in tration has begun to backpedal. A discount virus from them would receive compensation and many other progressive leaders. The bill January/February, March, April, May, drug card scheme was recently announced for their medical expenses, including two- is also known as “Medicare-for-All” because June/July, August, September, October for those benefi ciaries who choose to stay in thirds of their wages after missing fi ve days it expands the current Medicare system to all and November/December by the Mas- traditional Medicare. Offi cials touted antici- of work and qualifying for $262,100 if they U.S. residents while providing a much more sachusetts Nurses Association, 340 pated discounts of 7 to 20 percent. Consumer die or become disabled as a result of the vac- comprehensive benefi t package. Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021. advocates blasted the plan because there is no cine. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.), the chairman The bill currently has 25 co-sponsors: guarantee of access or affordability. Under the of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Conyers, Carson (D-Ind.), Christensen (D- Subscription price: $20 per year Bush proposal, seniors will continue to be at Pensions (HELP) Committee announced he Virgin Islands), Clay (D-Mo.), Cummings Foreign: $28 per year the mercy of drug company price gouging would soon introduce legislation to establish (D-Md.), Davis (D-Ill.), Fattah (D-Pa), Single copy: $3.00 and for-profi t health insurers. Bush’s proposed compensation program. On Gijalva (D-Ariz.), Hastings (D-Fla.), Hinchey Feb. 13, Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) intro- (D-N.Y)., Jackson, Jr. (D-Ill.), Kilpatrick (D- Periodical postage paid at Canton, MA Smallpox program duced a more generous package in H.R. 865, Mich.), Kucinich (D-Ohio), Lee (D-Calif.), and additional mailing offi ces. On Dec. 13, 2002, President Bush announced a bill to protect and compensate workers and Lewis (D-Ga.), McDermott, Norton (D- Deadline: Copy submitted for publica- that as of Jan. 24, 2003, some 500,000 health others injured by the smallpox vaccination. D.C.), Owens (D-N.Y.), Pastor (D-Ariz.), tion consideration must be received at care workers and other “fi rst-responders” to It permits up to four days of paid leave for Payne (D-N.J.), Rangel (D-N.Y.), Scott (D- MNA headquarters by the fi rst day of a potential bioterrorist attack would begin to health care workers who experience signifi - Va.), Thompson (D-Miss.), Towns (D-N.Y.), the month prior to the month of publi- receive the smallpox vaccination. The second cant reactions and provides grants to states Woolsey (D-Calif.). cation. All submissions are subject to phase of the plan called for up to 10 million editing and none will be returned. health workers, fi refi ghters, police and ambu- lance personnel to be inoculated. The kickoff Save the Date Postmaster: Send address corrections date of the program coincided with the day to Massachusetts Nurse, Massachu- the vaccine-maker received the full liability setts Nurses Association, 340 Turnpike protection enacted into law by Congress. School Health Advocacy Day Street, Canton, MA 02021. Health care workers, however, didn’t receive April 28 www.massnurses.org the same consideration. As originally presented, the Bush plan State House (Nurses Hall) did not include a compensation program for those who experience adverse reactions to the 9 - 11:30 a.m. vaccine. Researchers estimate that between 15 Come rally and lobby for the restoration of funding to support and 42 of every one million individuals who school nursing and school health clinics to protect the health and receive the smallpox vaccine will experience life-threatening reactions and one or two indi- well being of the commonwealth’s school children. April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 5 An interview with state Sen. Jarrett Barrios The MassNURSE recently sat down with relief efforts. A founding member of the will be insured in effi cient ways to provide health care services, state Sen. Jarrett Barrios., D-Cambridge. Latino American Caucus, he sits on the com- terms of preventative passing a prescription drug benefi t and pre- Barrios was recently elected state senator for mittees of housing & urban development, health care and who serving our fragile public health system are Middlesex, Suffolk and Essex, which includes banks & banking and steering, policy and will, unfortunately, all priorities. Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Charlestown, scheduling. be left to be cared for MassNurse: How do you see your role as Allston, parts of Revere, Saugus and Somer- Barrios’ priorities include expanding in emergency rooms a legislator changing as you move from the ville. Barrios had served as a member of the affordable housing opportunities; develop- will be a big debate. 160-member House of Representatives to the Massachusetts House of Representatives ing consumer friendly banking laws; fully In addition, from the 40-member State Senate? since 1999. funding childcare programs; implementing perspective of vice- Barrios: With the offi ce and staff resources The son of a carpenter and a social worker, sensible education reform; and planning chair of health care and I think we can be more deliberate and thor- Barrios came to Cambridge when he was 17 and investing in regional transit and infra- chair of pub-lic safety ough in reviewing the policy issues that are to study at Harvard College. After graduat- structure. committees, bioterror- before us. For example, as the Health Care ing with high honors and working for the Barrios was recently appointed chair of the ism, security at home Jarrett Barrios Committee vice-chair, I’ll be looking at how Boston City Council and in local campaigns, Joint Committee on Public Safety and vice- and public health will and when to make strategic investments and he obtained his law degree with honors from chair of the Health Care Committee. draw much attention. I anticipate an active innovations in services. In terms of education, Georgetown University. While in law school, dialogue with public safety offi cials, hospi- public safety and other areas of importance, I he wrote for The Tax Lawyer, worked in the tal administrators, health care providers and want to bring informed and thoughtful dia- Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Con- nurses on these issues. logue to the deliberations in order to advocate sumer Protection and won both the written MassNurse: How does your background for the working-class people of the district. and oral portions of Georgetown’s annual help prepare you to be an effective state MassNurse: What would you tell the moot competition−the fi rst student in the legislator? nurses out there reading this column about school’s history to achieve this feat. Barrios: I think there are three pieces of the importance of building a relationship with Coming back to Cambridge, he practiced my background and work I point to. My their local legislators? law at the fi rm of Hill & Barlow where he was education and law degree have given me a Barrios: The bonds you make with local honored with the “Pro Bono Lawyer of the MassNurse: You have fi led a comprehensive solid foundation, my work with civic and legislators will be the powers that persuade Year Award” in 1997. First elected in 1998 to prescription drug coverage piece of legisla- community groups has allowed me to build them to sensible health care solutions. the House of Representatives, he was elected tion–please tell us more about this and how local relationships and better understand MassNurse: What do you enjoy most about to the Senate in 2002. nurses can help you with this initiative. the needs of the community I serve, and your work as a state legislator? As a state representative, he led success- Barrios: This bill has some similarities to in each campaign I have gone door-to-door Barrios: Speaking and corresponding with ful efforts to create a low-income housing the recently passed Maine and Vermont pro- in neighborhoods. I have knocked on thou- all my constituents−the black, the white, the tax credit and Massachusetts’ fi rst afford- grams. In addition, it implements a Canadian sands and thousands of doors. That exercise brown, the poor, the wealthy, the old, the able housing production program in over drug-purchasing program which will make not only opens the lines of communication to young−about issues that affect their daily a decade, as well as to create an affordable prescription drugs available here at Cana- your constituents, but provides you with an lives. There is no greater satisfaction. housing trust. He passed legislation to require dian prices at a savings of 20 to 50 percent. unwavering understanding of their concerns, MassNurse: What is your proudest success interpreter services in hospital emergency Because nurses work so hard in advocating beliefs and goals. as a state legislator? rooms and to improve benefi ts to widows of for patients, their work and effort on prescrip- MassNurse: What are the main priorities Barrios: While I have only been in the disabled veterans. tion drug coverage will prove pivotal in the of your legislative agenda for the upcoming Senate for just over a month, my proudest He is sponsoring legislation to protect success of this legislation. year? accomplishment was witnessing the passage consumers from unfair bank fees and lend- MassNurse: What issues do you believe Barrios: To protect our health care system, of an amendment I sponsored to protect ing practices, raise wages for human service will dominate this legislative session? and, in particular, to prevent the uncompen- school funding from Governor Romney’s workers and improve the state’s disaster Barrios: Medicaid issues such as who sated care pool from imploding. Finding more budget cuts last month. Moore responds to cuts to school health services, nurses MNA advocates to With news that Governor Romney’s recent what was provided in the schools. for Developing School Health Services in the protect public health budget cuts will directly affect school nurses • Many students had chronic health con- Commonwealth of Massachusetts (April 1, safety net in budget and school health services, Sen. Richard T. ditions that required constant attention 1998), DPH outlined to the Senate and House Moore (D-Uxbridge) fi led an amendment and complex administration and moni- Ways and Means Committees a plan for the The MNA has been working with vari- seeking to restore the funding, which pro- toring of medications. Schools surveyed expansion of school health services. ous coalitions in an effort to protect and vides services to 109 schools throughout the had many diagnosed health condi- Currently, local communities can receive preserve vital public health programs as commonwealth. Moore, Senate chair of the tions, such as asthma/severe allergies, reimbursement from the federal government the governor and the Legislature begin Health Care Committee, calls school health attention defi cit disorder, psychiatric for certain health-related services provided deliberations for the fi scal year 2004 state programs core services, which he notes the disorders, epilepsy/seizures, diabetes, at the schools. The federal reimbursement budget. governor pledged he would not cut. etc., that required nursing assessment money is commonly referred to as “Munici- Facing a growing state budget shortfall “Despite the governor’s campaign pledge and/or intervention to maximize edu- pal Medicaid.” During the last several years, many of the public health programs that not to cut core services, Governor Romney cational experience. the Municipal Medicaid program has brought the MNA and nurses across the state have recently exercised his authority to eliminate • On a daily basis, students experienced into the local communities the following: FY advocated for are in jeopardy of being cut every enhanced school health/school nurse a variety of health-related problems 99: $9,888,472; FY 00: $22,221,204; FY 01: or eliminated. These programs are critical and school–based health centers programs. besides medical conditions. For exam- $34,620,790; and FY 02: $42,148,451. All to ensuring that our state has a health These services are, and rightfully should be, ple, the Massachusetts Department money received from the federal govern- care safety net, as well as education and considered cores services,” said Moore. “In of Public Health has documented an ment as Municipal Medicaid is deposited in prevention systems that will benefi t all many instances, the health services provided increase in substance abuse and other the local community’s general fund, which Massachusetts residents. to our school-aged children through these social and behavior problems that tax can be used for virtually any purpose. The MNA is working with a number of programs are the only health services that the ability of our schools to effectively Under Moore’s proposed amendment, all groups on these public health issues: • these children receive. The school nurses of educate our children. money received in the form of Municipal Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner today do more than hand out Band Aids.” • There was a serious shortage of school Medicaid reimbursement from the federal program • In 1997, Governor Weld and the Legisla- nurses. Most schools had below the government would be sent back to the local The tobacco control program and ture established a Commission on School guidelines of one nurse to every 750 communities and used exclusively for school the Massachusetts Coalition for a Nursing, which was comprised of elected regular education students – a ratio nurses, enhanced school health services and Healthy Future • and appointed offi cials, the Massachusetts that was developed in 1983, before school-based health centers as previously Cuts and program reductions in School Nurse Organization, Parents Alli- a recent infl ux of students who have funded under DPH. MassHealth Basic • ance for Catholic Education, American Cancer more complex health care needs. Some “This amendment is aimed at protecting Cancer education, prevention and Society, Massachusetts Nurses Association, public and non-public schools had no school-based health services, which are an treatment programs • Massachusetts Municipal Association, and nursing personnel present. excellent mechanism to ensure that school- Hepatitis C education, prevention the Massachusetts Departments of Education In fi scal year 1998, the governor and the age students receive proper health care,” said and treatment programs • and Public Health. The commission found: legislature responded to the commission’s Moore. “They work in conjunction with local State human services in mental • Many students did not receive appro- fi ndings by funding DPH to develop a fund- physicians in the community to provide all health, mental retardation and priate primary care services beyond ing plan for school health services. In Options manners of health services.” public health Page 6 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003

Keep up the fi ght!

off. Ninety-nine leg- Safe Staffi ng Saves Lives By Rep. Christine Canavan, RN islators have signed Vice-chair, Committee on Health Care on as co-sponsors to Sponsor, Quality Patient Care/Safe Staffi ng Quality Patient Care/ Pass House Bill 1282 Legislation Safe Staffi ng legisla- As a registered nurse for the past 20 tion to set minimum years, and as a sixth term state legislator, Understaffi ng of registered nurses is dangerous to patients. RN-to-patient ratios. I have been pleasantly taken back by the A recent public Mistakes, errors and complications become more likely when increasing legislative and political activism opinion poll shows of registered nurses. I have seen a new and nurses are asked to take care of too many patients at once. that citizens not only renewed focus on utilizing the legislative and understand the con- political system to achieve gains for patients A study of six million patients reported in the New England cern that nurses have and nurses. This is something that was long regarding patient Christine Canavan Journal of Medicine show that patients without adequate overdue and very much needed in our ever- safety and care, but nursing attention are more likely to die or suffer serious changing political world. they overwhelmingly support efforts to I sense a new energy and determination as I complications: the more nurses per patient the better the regulate RN-to-patient ratios. travel around my region and the state. Nurses Changing state law is a long and arduous medical outcomes. come up to me, everywhere and anywhere, process. It requires enormous amounts of and engage me in discussions about legisla- time, energy and effort. Keep up the fi ght! The Journal of the American Medical Association reported tive issues and policies. You will win! that in a study of 232,000 surgical patients the higher the This work and effort is beginning to pay patient-to-nurse ratio, the more likely there will be a death or serious complication. Each additional patient above four Want safe staffi ng? Attend a legislative briefi ng that a nurse cared for produced a 7 percent increase in The MNA Department of Legislation & Friday, April 4, 9 a.m. Government Affairs, the Congress on Health Emmy’s Deli, Rt. 123 mortality. If a nurse is caring for eight patients instead of Policy and Legislation and MNA members Rep. Patricia Haddad four, there is a 31 percent increase in mortality. from across the state are working together (Dighton, Somerset, Swansea and Taunton) to set up legislative briefi ngs across the Friday, April 4, 9:30 a.m. The fact that nurses are burned out from high patient state. These briefi ngs, entitled “A Public Somerset Town Hall loads is causing them to leave the profession. One in three Health Crisis: Recruitment and Retention Rep. Robert Coughlin in Nursing — Its Impact on Patient Care,” (Dedham, Walpole and Westwood) registered nurses under the age of 30 say they are planning are designed as a forum for MNA members Tuesday, April 8, 5 p.m. to leave nursing within the next year. and our supporters to meet with local legis- District Offi ce, 369 Washington St., lators and inform them of the critical staffi ng Dedham issues that nurses face in health care facilities Rep. Thomas Golden To Preserve Quality Care and Protect Patient Safety everyday and to help us win their support (Chelmsford and Lowell) Join those who have endorsed House Bill 1282 for our safe staffi ng bill. Friday, April 11, 9 a.m. Below is a listing of briefi ngs that have Location: TBD Ad Hoc Committee to Defend Health Care Mass. Association of Public Health Nurses been organized with the legislators who sit Rep. William Galvin AIDS Care Project Mass. Brain Injury Association on the Health Care Committee. These are (Avon, Canton, Stoughton) the very legislators who will determine the Friday, April 11, 1:30 pm Alzheimer’s Association, MA Chapter Mass. Breast Cancer Coalition future of the MNA sponsored Safe Staff- Galvin Insurance Agency American Diabetes Association of Mass. Human Services Coalition ing Legislation. They need to hear from 1209 Washington Street, Canton Greater Boston Mass. Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy their RN constituents what is happening Rep. Colleen Garry American Lung Association of Coalition on the frontlines of health care — come (Dracut and Tyngsborough) Greater Norfolk County share your story! If you live in the towns Friday, April 18, 11 a.m. Massachusetts Nurses Association represented by the legislators and want to District Offi ce, 1105 Lakeview Ave, American Lung Association of Mass. School Nurse Organization participate, please RSVP to 781-830-5725 or Dracut Massachusetts Mass. Senior Action Council [email protected] To RSVP or for more information, call 781- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association Rep. Kathleen Teahan 830-5725. If you would like to host a briefi ng Mass. Society of Eye Physicians and (Abington, East Bridgewater and Whitman) in your area, please call 781-830-5713. Arise for Social Justice Surgeons Boston AIDS Consortium Sister Rosellen Gallogly of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Market Ministries, Inc. eeSave the Dateee Program Mass. NOW (National Organization for Boston Women’s Commission Women) Cape Organization for Rights of the Massachusetts Spina Bifi da Association Disabled MassPIRG Safe Staffi ng Bill Family Economic Initiative MetroWest AIDS Program Gay and Lesbian Advocates and MetroWest Latin American Center Defenders National Association of Social Workers Greater Boston Diabetes Society — Massachusetts Chapter Health Care for All National Kidney Foundation of MA, RI, Independent Living Center of NH, Vermont, Inc. North Shore and Cape Ann, Inc. Neighbor-to-Neighbor Jobs with Justice Search for a Cure Jonathan M. Cole Mental Health The Abortion Access Project Consumer Resource Center The Consortium for Psychotherapy Latin American Health Institute The Episcopal Diocese of Western Mass. Health Care Committee Public Hearing Lynn Health Task Force Victory Programs, Boston Mass. Asian AIDS Prevention Project Vineyard Health Care Access Program Wednesday, June 18 April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 7

Billing statements have new look Beginning with the April 2003 statement, we are using a new billing statement. What you need to know about the new statement: • Billing Period Through: Time you are Celebrating 100 years of the MNA being billed for. • Date Due: Date payment is due. • Annual Dues Amount: Your current as we honor the 40th anniversary annual dues. • # Installments: The number of payments of the Civil Rights Bill of 1963. you make in a year to pay your dues. • Billed Year to Date: Amount you have been billed in your current dues year (not the calendar year). Founded in 1903, the • Balance Forward: The outstanding dues Massachusetts Nurses owed from a prior year. This maybe due Association (MNA) is the to our conversion and resulting delays in billing (bills you did not get) or for actual largest union of registered 1908National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses (NACGN) missed payments. nurses in the state. Its is founded by Martha Minerva Franklin • Total Amount Due: 20,000 members work in • *Fees: If applicable a $25 fee is added to the total amount due if you had a declined more than 85 different 1926Negro History Week is established by Dr. Carter G. Woodson (expanded to Black History Month in 1976) credit card, EFT or check. health care facilities across • Date Due: Date payment is due. Massachusetts. The MNA • Member Name: Your name. works to advance the 1931Estelle Massey Osborne becomes the fi rst Black person to obtain • ID Number: Your MNA identifi cation a master’s degree in nursing number. nursing profession by The bottom portion of the statement is to be fostering high standards of returned in the self addressed envelope that is nursing practice, promoting 1952Mabel Keaton Staupers, author of No Time for Prejudice, receives the enclosed with the statement. The top portion Spingarn Medal for her efforts to integrate Black nurses as equals of the statement is for your records. the economic and general

MASSACHUSETTS NURSES ASSOCIATION 340 TURNPIKE ST. • CANTON, MA 02021 welfare of nurses in the (781) 821-4625 • (800) 882-2056 BILLING STATEMENT 1971National Black Nurses Association (NBNA), now 78 chapters strong, BILLING PERIOD THROUGH DATE DUE ANNUAL DUES AMOUNT # INSTALLMENTS workplace through the is founded by Dr. Lauranne Sams BILLED YEAR TO DATE BALANCE FORWARD PREVIOUSLY PAID CURRENT BALANCE DUE ID #:

efforts of our Diversity BILLING NOTICE If your records differ or if your status has changed, please call member services. If your payment has already been mailed, please disregard this notice.

PAYROLL DEDUCTION: Although you may have had dues deducted recently that money might have been applied to outstanding past dues. Most often outstanding past dues occur: 1) if you are working casual part time; 2) if your are working per diem; or 3) if you have had a break in service due to a Committee, projecting a leave of absence. If you are working in a mandatory facility, dues are required by contact regardless of whether or not you are working every week. New England Regional Black Nurses Association, Inc. (NERBNA) (Please check your contract if you have any questions.) 1973 *A $25 fee is added to the total due below if you had a declined credit card, EFT or check. If you have left your facility or if you would like to change your payment method, please call and leave your name, ID# and a message. If you have any positive and realistic view is incorporated in Boston, MA questions, please contact our office at 800-882-2056 or (781) 821-4625 and ask to speak to a member services representative. Under the Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1993, that portion of membership dues used by MNA for lobbying expenses is not deductible as ordinary and necessary business expense.

of nursing, and by lobbying Please Detach & Return With Your Payment

TOTAL AMOUNT DUE * FEES DATE DUE regulatory agencies on MEMBER NAME ID Number Mary Eliza Mahoney of Dorchester, MA, the fi rst Black registered nurse, Please check the appropriate section: 1976 ❏ Enclosed is my check in the amount of $______Make checks payable to Massachusetts Nurses Association health care issues affecting is posthumously inducted into the Nursing Hall of Fame ❏ Please charge my credit card in the amount of $______Mastercard # ______Exp. Date: ______Visa # ______Exp. Date: ______Cardholder Signature: ______

nurses and the public. ❏ Please be notified of the following changes: Last Name/First Name: ______Street or PO Box: ______City: ______State: ______Zip: ______Home Phone: ( ) ______The Massachusetts Nurses 1982President Ronald Reagan proclaims May 6 to be National Recognition Employer: ______Foundation (MNF), a Day for Nurses (later renamed National Nurses Day) FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Charge Code: ______Amt.______Cash ______Check # ______Ck Date ______V/MC______non-profit organization, Initials ______Date ______has awarded over 200 1988National Black Nurses Day is established nationwide to fall on the fi rst scholarships and 30 Friday in February as part of Black History Month research grants since its www.massnurses.org • (781) 821-4625 Health Care establishment in 1981. Sponsored by the MNA Diversity Committee Committee hearing on Safe Staffi ng bill set for June 18 Please plan on attending the Health Care Committee hearing on MNA’s Safe Staffi ng Legislation. This is our chance to show the Health Care Committee, as well as other legislators, the incredible support for RN-to-patient ratios. www.massnurses.org • (781) 821-4625 We need to have hundreds of nurses (in scrubs!) and our allies at the state Sponsored by the MNA Diversity Committee house to send the message that it is time for action on RN-to-patient ratios! For the latest information please visit We invite you to attend one of our monthly meetings. www.massnurses.org or call 781-830- Contact Carol Mallia at [email protected] or 781-830-5755 for more information. 5713. Page 8 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003

…Anniversary again calling upon nurses and the legislature From Page 1 to fulfi ll the promise of nursing by passing ing our need for partnership and support in legislation to provide nurses with a safe working together to protect the public by staffi ng ratio, she asked the nurses to rise passing laws that will allow our patients, and “raise some thunder for the future of their constituents, to obtain the care they so nurses.” rightfully deserve,” Higgins told the legisla- The entire hall rose up and began to bang tors and the media in the audience. Thunderstix that were provided, as the song Upon leaving the State House, nurses “Respect” by Aretha Franklin was played. boarded buses (and more than 50 marched) The ovation lasted for more than fi ve min- to historic Faneuil Hall, a short distance from utes, with nurses cheering and dancing in the State House. Faneuil Hall was the site of celebration. the founding meeting of MNA on Feb. 26, “It was one of the most exciting and proud- 1903. Built in 1740, Faneuil Hall was a gath- est moments I have experienced as a nurse to ering place for the patriots of the American see so many of my colleagues reveling in their Revolution, and has since been known as the own history and their own power as profes- “cradle of liberty.” sionals,” commented one attendee. The centerpiece of the program at Faneuil The nurses then left Faneuil Hall and pro- Hall was the presentation of a 30-minute ceeded to a popular nightclub in the Quincy documentary of the history of the MNA Market, adjacent to the Hall, where they and nursing in Massachusetts over the last completed the celebration. Nurses enjoyed century. The video featured archival footage champagne and refreshments, and a video from nursing and MNA history, interviews was played featuring congratulatory remarks with noted nursing historians and mem- Members from the Cambridge Health Alliance facilities. from state and local political leaders, includ- bers of the MNA from events and years ing Senator Edward Kennedy, Congressman past. The program was divided into four about the present and future challenges of the of nursing is still being made every day by James McGovern, the speaker of the House segments, with each segment covering a MNA. While she spoke, behind her the audi- nurses who engage in the activities of their of Representative Thomas Finneran and 25-year period in MNA/nursing history. An ence viewed video footage of the carnation professional association. We wanted to show president of the Senate Robert Travaglini. MNA member dressed in the uniform of that laying ceremony they had just held. that the work and the mission of the MNA is The evening’s festivities culminated with period introduced each segment. As the fi lm “We wanted to show the audience that we ongoing,” the MNA president said. the cutting of the MNA’s 100th Anniversary ended, Higgins took the stage to offer remarks are all part of a tradition and that the history As Higgins concluded her remarks, once birthday cake.

MNA’s 100-year anniversary

Peter Koutoujian after presenting the legislative resolution marking the MNA 100th anniversary.

From left, Reps. Jennifer Callahan, RN, D-Sutton, Mark Howland, D-Freetown and Barbara L’Italien, D-Andover

Kate Maker, RN, left, and Kathy Logan, RN, both from UMass Medical Center, join the festitivities by dressing in the uniforms of their predecessors.

Rep. Christine Canavan, right, collects fl owers during the evening’s symbolic carnation laying ceremony April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 9

Proud MNA nurses get ready to participate in the carnation ceremony. MNA members and supporters applaud during the ceremony program at Gardner Auditorium at the Statehouse.

Marcia Tappin-Miller, RN Michael D’Intinosanto, RN

Joanne Bartoszewicz, RN

Donna Kelly-Williams, RN

Joanne Bartoszewicz, left, and Donna Kelly-Williams make some thunder. Charles Stefannini and Karen Higgins lead the crowd in a chorus of Happy Birthday during the evening’s cake-cutting ceremony. Page 10 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003 MNA 1903-2003: A century of caring for the commonwealth Fact Sheet and Historical Timeline

Below is a timeline of historical highlights of the MNA’s work over the last century. later. Within four years, MNA organized more than 76 bargaining units throughout 1903 The Massachusetts State Nurses Association is founded during a meeting of 300 the state. graduate nurses at Faneuil Hall on Feb. 26 – one of the fi rst of its kind in the nation. 1970 Associate degree programs in nursing fl ourished in the commonwealth, increasing Its purpose is fi rst, to secure legislation for the protection of the nursing profession from six to 19 between 1968-1978. for the benefi t of the public, the physician and the nurse by creating a law requir- 1973 Thousands of nurses rally at the State House and at Faneuil Hall to help defeat Gov. ing the registration of nurses; second, to formulate a code of ethics for the nurses of Francis Sargeant’s attempt to abolish the Board of Registration in Nursing. the state; and third, to work for higher standards of nursing practice and a uniform 1975 MNA drafts and passes legislation authorizing nurses to practice in the expanded curriculum in nurses’ education. role, which opens the door to nurses with advanced education to provide a variety 1904 Act to Regulate the Practice of Professional Nursing of the Sick is fi led with the of specialized services, such as the delivery of primary care by nurse practitioners Massachusetts State Legislature. and assistance with birth by certifi ed nurse midwives. 1910 MNA succeeds in passing legislation creating Massachusetts Board of Registration 1977 MNA drafts and helps pass legislation mandating completion of continuing educa- in Nursing (BORN). The law calls for a mixed board of nurses, physicians and hos- tion credits as requirement for nursing licensure renewal. Massachusetts legislature pital administrators. On Nov. 15, MNA President Mary Riddle is issued a license passes statute allowing Massachusetts nurse midwives to deliver babies. After 75 as Massachusetts Registered Nurse # 1, the fi rst RN in Massachusetts and the fi rst years, the MNA fi nally wins passage of legislation mandating an “all nurse” Board chairperson of the Mass. BORN. of Registration in Nursing. The struggle for nurses to have complete autonomy over 1912 The vast majority of graduate nurses worked as “private duty nurses,” working in their practice is fi nally achieved. private homes. Hospital nursing was performed by student nurses in the hospital- 1978 Cost containment and health care restructuring by the state and federal government, based training programs, where they were little more than indentured servants. To along with cost cutting by health care employers creates deplorable working condi- assist private duty nurses in fi nding work, the MNA established a Central Directory tions and low salary levels for nurses that set the stage for more militant approaches for private duty nurses to help them fi nd work. In the following two decades, the at the negotiating table. Nurses at Cape Cod Hospital and Berkshire Medical Center registry grew from 250 to 2400 nurses, the largest non-profi t registry in the nation. take strike votes for the fi rst time in MNA history. This time they settle without a 1914-18 MNA members participate in World War I and help in mobilizing nurses to assist strike. in responding to the Infl uenza pandemic in 1918. More than 400 MNA members, 30 1979 The MNA supports and helps win passage of the state’s fi rst Patients Bill of Rights, percent of its total membership, would serve in the war. making Massachusetts only the third state to grant such rights to its hospitalized 1919 The Massachusetts Nurse Practice Act is amended to provide for the registration of patients. It gives patients the right to know who is caring for them, to inspect their only graduates of nurse training programs and for a standardized curriculum for medical records and the right to prompt life-saving treatment without discrimina- the nurse training schools in the state. tion. 1920 The 19th Amendment grants women the right to vote. 1980 On May 28, 450 nurses at Newton Wellesley Hospital go out on strike to 1923 The Goldmark Report, the study of Nursing and Nursing Education in the United force the hospital to recognize their union. This is the fi rst nurses’ strike in States, is published. Gertrude Peabody of Boston’s Visiting Nurses Association and Massachusetts and the nation’s fi rst nurses’ strike for union recognition. a member of MNA is instrumental in persuading the Rockefeller Foundation to fund Later that year, the nurses at the Visiting Nurses Association of Boston will conduct the study. a strike to win a “fi rst contract,” which is the fi rst “economic” strike in MNA history. 1928 MNA drafts and publishes a code of ethics for nurses in Massachusetts and the Over the next three years, MNA bargaining units would wage strikes at Berkshire organization establishes its fi rst headquarters at 420 Boylston Street. Medical Center (1981, 69 days), Cape Cod Hospital (1981, 17 days) Burbank Hospital 1934 MNA supports the eight-hour work day for nurses. in Fitchburg (1982, at six months, the longest strike in MNA history), and at Lynn 1938 MNA helps pass legislation calling for compulsory registration for graduates of Hospital (1983, 42 days). attendant schools of nurses (later known as LPNs). 1983 MNA succeeds in passing the fi rst bill authorizing Nurse Practitioners to write pre- 1940 World War II. MNA takes a leadership role in working with state and federal offi cials scriptions in long-term care facilities and for certain patients at home. This is the to develop nursing contingency plans for the war effort. fi rst time registered nurses are allowed to write prescriptions. Limited prescription 1944 Margaret L. Slanger, a native of Roxbury and MNA member is the fi rst Army nurse writing authority is granted to nurse midwives. killed in action shortly after the D-Day invasion. Her death makes national headlines 1985/86 Bill passed to mandate third-party reimbursement for services of psychiatric nurse and draws signifi cant attention to the contributions of nurses to the war effort. In mental health clinical specialists and nurse midwives. all, more than 3,500 MNA members will serve in the war, representing more than a 1986 As hospitals continue to cut costs, nurses fi nd themselves working with fewer ancil- third of the membership. lary support staff and being forced to perform extensive custodial, non-nursing duties. 1946 Nurses returning from war are reluctant to work under the conditions that exist in The nurses at Carney Hospital respond by waging a highly successful 36-day strike, peacetime hospitals. A labor survey shows that the average wage for a staff nurse is 78 winning language prohibiting them from being assigned non-nursing tasks. cents an hour, compared to 95 cents per hour for women working in manufacturing. 1989 Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, the health care industry attempts to This year, the American Nurses Association will endorse collective bargaining as a deal with a shortage of nurses by replacing nurses with unlicensed technicians and means for nurses to achieve better pay and working conditions. MNA will establish aides. Nurses at Quincy Hospital and Boston Medical Center are the fi rst to confront a professional placement and career counseling service to assist nurses in fi nding these schemes. Nurses at Carney Hospital fi ght back with an aggressive campaign work in the peacetime economy. to prevent this plan from being implemented, winning national recognition for their 1948 First bachelor’s degree program in nursing is established at Boston University. efforts. 1950 MNA nurses recruited for service in Korea. 1990 Bill passed to allow nurse midwives to write prescriptions. 1955 The MNA membership votes to establish an Economic Security Program, authorizing 1991 Special Commission on Nursing established by the Massachusetts Legislature. the use of collective bargaining for nurses. The same year, the MNA will be called 1992 Bill passed to allow nurse practitioners and psychiatric nurse mental health clinical upon to recruit nurses to help the state address the growing polio epidemic. MNA specialists to write prescriptions. District 5 responds to an outbreak in the city of Boston by recruiting more than 300 Brigham & Women’s Hospital nurses ratify a contract which includes a landmark, nurses. In recognition of their effort, City Council passed a resolution acknowledg- fi rst-in-the-nation provision guaranteeing disability insurance for those infected with ing their contributions to the public health and safety. HIV from a work-related exposure. 1957 The nurses at Hale Hospital form a union and organize a mass resignation to force 1994 With the deregulation of the health care industry and the introduction of managed care the city of Haverhill to grant them a contract and pay increase. The MNA is called in in Massachusetts, the health care industry responds by slashing its nursing staff, laying to assist them in their efforts, marking MNA’s fi rst successful effort to use collective off thousands of nurses and employing plans to replace nurses with unlicensed person- bargaining on behalf of nurses. nel. Nurses’ patient assignments double and the care they deliver begins to deteriorate. 1958 MNA wins one of the most important amendments to the Nurse Practice Act, making The staff nurses at MNA bargaining units respond by appealing to the MNA Board it mandatory that anyone practicing nursing in the Commonwealth be registered to of Directors to take a stand and go public with their concerns. The MNA Cabinet for do so through the BORN. Before that time, nursing registration was only concerned Labor Relations and the Board of Directors call a joint meeting in Randolph attended by with defi ning who could call themselves a registered nurse. Now, only a registered more than 250 nurses from across the state. The nurses pass a resolution declaring that nurse or a licensed practical nurse could practice nursing – period. the quality of patient care in Massachusetts hospitals is being jeopardized and that the 1964 MNA drafts and wins passage of legislation (Chapter 150A) authorizing nurses MNA should wage a campaign to improve patient’s access to safe nursing care. The employed in the private sector to engage in collective bargaining activities. Before MNA membership later will pass a resolution launching the MNA Statewide Cam- this, nurses could organize a union but employers were not required to recognize paign for Safe Care, an organization-wide public awareness and legislative campaign and/or bargain with the union. to improve the quality of patient care by increasing patient’s access to quality nursing 1965 MNA begins collective bargaining efforts. Quincy Hospital became the fi rst MNA care. This is the fi rst time MNA members will agree to publicly and uniformly criticize bargaining unit under the new law, casting an historic 189 to 15 vote in favor of the intent and practices of the health care industry in their delivery of health care. forming a union. Whidden Memorial Hospital would win its vote a few months Continued on Page 11 April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 11

…A century of caring Joint Legislative Resolution From Page 10 Nurses at Brigham & Women’s Hospital will begin a campaign to draw media and Commemorating the 100th Anniversary public attention to the issue of poor indoor air quality workplace hazards on the health of nurses in their facility. More than 300 B&W registered nurses will suffer of the Massachusetts Nurses Association from illnesses related to the problem. A group of affected nurses will mobilize a cam- paign to draw attention to the issue, fi rst within the MNA and later throughout the Whereas, the birth of the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the result of the work, national nursing community. Their efforts will make occupational health and safety courage and tenacity of a long line of committed pioneers in the fi eld that trace their roots a focus of MNA activity for years to come, establishing MNA as a leading voice for back to the Revolutionary War, when George Washington called for nurses to care for improvements in workplace safety to deal with the issues of indoor air quality, latex the troops in the battle for freedom; and allergy, ergonomics/back injury prevention and workplace violence. the story on the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the story of nurses 1995 A Blue Ribbon Commission of nursing experts called together by the Safe Care Whereas, Campaign drafts a legislative agenda to improve patient care. The package includes commitment to caring, and an unyielding belief that they deserve to command their own a bill mandating the identifi cation of health care workers, legislation mandating place on the front-lines of health care, an association dedicated to giving power, protec- the collection of patient outcome data compared to nurse staffi ng levels, and a bill tion and voice to those on the frontlines in the struggle to alleviate suffering and to foster regulating RN staffi ng levels and providing whistle blower protection to all health wellness in a society; and care providers 1996 The MNA wins passage of its legislation requiring all health care providers to wear Whereas, on February 26, 1903 more than 300 nurses came to the historic cradle of name badges identifying their licensure status. This bill, part of the Safe Care Cam- freedom and social and political reform, Faneuil Hall, for the formation of a state associa- paign, was designed to combat efforts by hospitals to pawn off unlicensed workers tion with a view to secure by legislation for the state registration of trained nurses; and as nurses. Now patients would be able to know who is there nurse and who is not. for the past 100 years the Massachusetts Nurses Association has continued Nurses at Brigham & Women’s Hospital take a 90 percent vote in favor of a strike in Whereas, its unwavering commitment and dedication to the advocacy of the nursing profession, their effort to prevent their employer from implementing contract provisions allowing the hospital to replace registered nurses with unlicensed personnel. The strike vote the provision of quality health care and a demand to achieve the highest standards in draws extensive state and national publicity to the dangers of such practices, leading the delivery of that care; and the hospital to capitulate and preventing the need for a strike. Following this, eight Whereas, the work and advocacy of the Massachusetts Nurses Association has led to other MNA bargaining units will take strike votes winning similar protections. many highly recognized reforms and achievements within our health care system includ- 1998 The MNA wins passage of Whistle Blower Protection legislation, preventing health care employers from fi ring or reprimanding nurses and other providers for reporting ing registration of nurses and establishing the board of registration, the nurse practice unsafe conditions. act, and the fi rst patient’s bill of rights 1979, making Massachusetts only the third state 1999 The MNA, through the work of its newly established Congress on Occupational to provide such rights to its hospitalized patients; and Health & Safety, wins passage of legislation to protect health care workers from the Massachusetts Nurses Association has been, and continues to be, a needlestick injuries and to mandate utilization of safe needles and sharps instruments. Whereas, strong voice for registered nurses on the front-lines of our health care delivery system, The initiative was sparked by a tragic event, when then President Karen Daley, a nurse at Brigham & Women’s Hospital, went public with her story of contracting advocating for economic security of registered nurses through advocacy and collective HIV and Hepatitis C from a preventable needlestick caused by a poorly designed bargaining; and needle dispensing system. Whereas, today the Massachusetts Nurses Association continues its steadfast pledge 2000 On March 31, 615 RNs at St. Vincent Hospital go out on strike over the issues of inadequate staffi ng and mandatory overtime. The fi rst nurses’ strike in 14 to advocate for patients and their nurses to protect patient safety and preserve quality years, the strike against for-profi t Tenet Health Care will last 49 days, drawing care, now therefore be it signifi cant local, state, national and international media coverage to the issue of that the Massachusetts house of representatives hereby recognizes the mandatory overtime. It will end dramatically with a settlement negotiated in the Resolved, Washington, D.C. offi ces of Senator Edward Kennedy. The settlement reached outstanding work registered nurses do every day in providing quality health care and will serve as the foundation for contract language to be subsequently negotiated congratulates the members of the Massachusetts Nurses Association on a century of into a number of MNA contracts and in nurses’ union contracts across the nation. distinguished service to the citizens of the commonwealth; and be it further The MNA membership, led by a number of leadership groups within the organiza- tion, begins to campaign for a vote for the MNA to disaffi liate from the American Resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be transmitted forthwith by the clerk of the Nurses Association. The MNA, which for years had struggled to make the ANA House of Representatives to the Massachusetts Nurses Association. more responsive and aggressive in addressing the needs of front-line nurses, had Offered by determined it needed to seek independence from the national federation and pursue Representative Peter Koutoujian new alliances with more like-minded and progressive state nurses’ associations. 2001 On March 24, more than 2,400 MNA members, the largest single gathering of nurses in one place in the state’s history, gather at Mechanics Hall in Worcester to cast their vote (82 percent) in favor of disaffi liation from the American Nurses Association. The MNA, along with the California Nurses Association, the Maine State Nurses Association and the Pennsylvania Association of Staff Nurses and Allied Benefits Corner brought to you by… Health Professionals announce the founding of the American Association of Registered Nurses, a new progressive national organization of nurses dedi- Discounts at Wrentham outlets, Florida cated to protecting and advocating for nurses on the front-lines of health care. Nurses at Brockton Hospital wage a 103-day strike over issues of unsafe staffi ng and attractions are new MNA benefi ts mandatory overtime, once again drawing signifi cant media coverage and community The MNA is proud to announce our new We are also proud to announce MNA has support. This time, Senator John Kerry would step in to broker a settlement to the strike. moneysaving benefi t for our members. expanded its discount program for central A special Legislative Commission on Nursing and Nursing Practice holds hearings Members simply present their valid MNA Florida area attractions. In conjunction across the state for nurses to testify about the crisis in nursing. In June, a report membership card at the information desk with the Offi cial Ticket Center in Kissim- is issued calling for legislation, proposed by the MNA, to regulate RN to patient at the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets mee, Fla., MNA members are able to obtain ratios and to prohibit mandatory overtime. The report validates what the MNA had to receive a VIP coupon book offering discount admission to not only Walt Disney contended for years through its Safe Care Campaign. hundreds of dollars in savings. Some of the World attractions but also other area attrac- 2002 The MNA, in support of its legislation to regulate RN to patient ratios in savings include: 10 percent off Williams- tions including Sea World, Busch Gardens, health care settings, conducts a survey of the public showing that more than Sonoma; 15 percent discount at Wilson’s Cypress Gardens, Wet n’ Wild, Kennedy 70 percent support legislation to regulate RN to patient ratios. In May, nurses Leather Outlet; 10-15 percent off Oneida Space Center and many more. The center from throughout the state circulate petitions calling for the passage of safe Home; $5-$20 discount at Pfaltzgraff Fac- also will provide area maps, park maps and staffi ng legislation in their communities for eight days. On May 6, ambu- tory Store; 10 percent off Ross Simons; 20 schedules. Visit their website at www.offi cia lances driven by nurses pick up the petitions and deliver 80,000 signatures to percent off Seiko Company Store. Many lticketcenter.us to view discount prices and the front steps of the state house in an emergency call for legislative action. more discounts are available at participat- to place an order (enter the MNA password On Dec. 3, the MNA once again fi les Quality Patient Care/Safe RN Staffi ng legislation ing stores listed in the VIP coupon book. tcotc42 & User ID “MNA” to access current to regulate RN to patient ratios in Massachusetts hospitals. The measure is essential Show your MNA membership card to discount prices) or call the Offi cial Ticket to protecting patients and to ending a shortage of nurses caused by poor staffi ng obtain a coupon book and start saving! Center at (877) 406-4836. conditions. To date, 100 legislators have signed on as sponsors of the bill. Page 12 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003

Another viewpoint Debate smallpox vaccination program on merits, not rhetoric This letter is in response to the MNA posi- government in general and the military in simply renders a potential weapon impotent, Thomas Adams, RN, BWH tion statement on the smallpox vaccine and particular. It references “criminal policy” by without the use of violence. Is this not a peace- James P. Asci, RN, BWH the article under Another Viewpoint, titled the government; the views as stated in this ful response? The article is rife with off topic Albert Pereyra, RN, RRT, BSN, BWH “Vaccinate against war not smallpox,” in article are at least criminally naive, if not references to 1950s air raid alerts, the civil Susanne Bloom, RN, BWH the January/February issue of Massachusetts negligent. As Americans we all have the right rights movement, HIV as well as a myriad Lt. Shaun Stanghellini, RN, BWH, USAR Nurse. and duty to be involved with, and question of other unrelated issues. It is pervasive in Neil Kosak, RN, BWH The MNA position on the DPH plans and the actions of, our government and elected its distrust of government, so much so, it Claire M. O’Connell, RNC, BWH preparations to combat bioterrorism involv- offi cials. Indeed, it is our right as citizens in begs the question: Is this about the welfare Jennifer Bartell, RN, BWH ing the smallpox virus is well thought out a free society. In this free society, dissent has of nurses and health care workers or political Melon Ditmar, RN, BWH and comprehensive. It addresses in a well- been an important expression of free speech. ideology? The intent here appears to be the Diane Conboy, RN, BWH reasoned manner the threat of a smallpox This article approaches the issue with a elimination of vaccination as a deterrent and Mary Masny, RN, BWH outbreak in the population, the complications dubious ideology and questionable moral safety measure based not on the available Norman Alberts, RN, BWH inherent in the vaccine based on the known ground. However, this is not the appropri- information but rather questionable ideology Rachael Corrigall, RN, BWH facts and possible fi nancial/job-related ate methodology to use in approaching such and paranoia of the government and military. Stephan Strojwas, RN, BWH impact on nurses. The articles on Pages 14- a critical issue. The article states, “As health The authors certainly have the right to voice Barbara O’Donnell, RN, BWH 15 provide valuable information that nurses care professionals we have pledged fi rst to do their opinions, but this piece does not rise to Laurie Guarino, RN, BWH and health care workers will need to make an no harm.” Noble and true as this sentiment is, the level of rational discussion regarding the Barbara Grady, RN, BWH informed decision on the vaccine as it pertains it pertains to each of us, as well as our patients use of the smallpox vaccine. Kathleen Barber, RN, BWH to them personally, professionally and within and peers. In this case to dismiss a potential The undersigned are all members of the Julie Attardo, RN, BWH their communities. health benefi t in the name of political protest MNA. The arguments made in “Vaccinate Paula Asci, RN, CGSMC An article on Page 16 of this same issue enti- is not morally correct, responsible or profes- against war, not smallpox” do not rise to the Anita Wright, RN, BWH tled, “Vaccinate against war, not smallpox,” sional. Dubious statements such as, “…the level required for a frank and professional Richard R Braden, RN, BWH contains none of the merits of the preceding international era of cooperation in combating discussion about the merits of the smallpox Brenda Muraca, RN, BWH articles and is recognizable as being on sub- worldwide disease is over,” and “…vaccinat- vaccine program. Therefore have no credible Barbara Gariepy, RN, BWH ject only by the use of the word “smallpox.” ing in the face of no known threat is wrong” place in a professional publication. The Mas- Joanne Smith, RN, BWH The decisions people must make regarding are factually incorrect and certainly naive. sachusetts Nurse has the responsibility and Cristina Curtiss, RN, BWH smallpox or any future threat should be They say, “let us wage a peaceful campaign right to publish differing opinions. We hope, Adrian Brooks, RN, BWH made based on the facts; not ideology and/ against all weapons of mass destruction.” We in the future, the discourse will contain more Kristin Lewis, RN, BWH or manifesto. This article appears to be based ask, what could be more peaceful than vac- fact and less fi ction. Deborah C. McDonnell, RN, BWH not on the above criteria but on contempt for cinating your population against smallpox? It Respectfully, Thomas A. Wilson, RN, BWH Health & Safety News Briefs CDC Fact Sheet

Smallpox vaccine and heart problems CDC releases infection control information for SARS Careful monitoring of smallpox vaccina- ness of breath, or other symptoms of cardiac Following an unexpected outbreak of a severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) tions given over recent months has suggested disease after vaccination. in parts of Asia, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with the World that the vaccine may cause heart infl amma- Anyone who has been diagnosed by a Health Organization, recently released information on case fi ndings and infection control. tion (myocarditis), infl ammation of the doctor as having heart disease and has At the time of print, the cause of these illnesses was unknown but was being continually membrane covering the heart (pericarditis), already received the smallpox vaccine investigated. and/or a combination of these two problems should contact their heart disease specialist Early manifestations in diagnosed SARS patients included infl uenza-like symptoms (myopericarditis). Experts are exploring this or their regular health care provider if they such as fever, myalgias, headache, sore throat, dry cough, shortness of breath or diffi - more in depth. have questions. culty breathing. In some cases symptoms were followed by hypoxia, pneumonia, and Heart pain (angina) and heart attack also occasionally acute respiratory distress requiring mechanical ventilation and death. Some have been reported following smallpox vac- What has been reported? close contacts, including healthcare workers, had developed similar illnesses. In response cination. However, it is not known at this Past experience: Rare cases of heart to these developments, the CDC initiated surveillance for cases of SARS among recent time if smallpox vaccination caused these infl ammation following smallpox vac- travelers or their close contacts. problems or if they occurred by chance alone cination were reported in the 1960s and For more information on SARS, please visit the CDC’s Web site at www.cdc.org, or the (heart problems are very common). Experts 1970s. Most of these did not occur in the MNA’s Web site at www.massnurses.org. are investigating this question also. United States and involved a different Reported events are not necessarily caused smallpox vaccine than is being used in Malpractice insurance for workplace violence by the vaccine, and some or all of these events the U.S. now. might be coincidental. Civilian vaccinations: Of the 25,645 NSO malpractice insurance provides two benefi ts for nurses who are survivors (victims) As a precautionary step, people who have civilians who had received the smallpox of violence in the workplace. been diagnosed by a doctor as having heart vaccine as of March 21, 2003, 7 reported Not everyone reads the fi ne print on insurance policies, but MNA Workplace Violence disease with or without symptoms should not heart problems. These included prob- Task Force member, Mary Bellistri, brought to the attention of task force members that a get the smallpox vaccine at this time while lems like angina (chest pain caused by $10,000 benefi t is provided by this insurer related to incidents of workplace violence. experts continue their investigations. lack of blood fl ow to the heart) and heart This benefi t can be utilized for medical expenses or property damage if you are assaulted These include heart conditions such as: attacks. One person who had a heart at work or during work related travel. This is in excess over any other available insurance • previous myocardial infarction (heart attackdied. It is not known at this time covering such loss. attack) if smallpox vaccination caused these If you are a policy holder and are in need of information or to utilize these benefi ts, • angina (chest pain caused by lack of events. contact the insurer at 800-247-1500. blood fl ow to the heart) Military vaccinations: The military has With the increase in incidence of workplace violence, this is just one more reason nurses • congestive heart failure given thousands of troops the smallpox should never be without personal malpractice insurance. • cardiomyopathy vaccine in recent months. A few cases These may be temporary exclusions and of heart infl ammation have been may change as more information is gath- reported in members of the military ered. receiving the vaccine for the fi rst time. Have you moved? The presence of these conditions in a close No such cases occurred in people who contact is not a reason to defer vaccination. had been vaccinated before. According Please notify the MNA Anyone who has received the smallpox to the Department of Defense, none of of your new address: vaccine should see a health care provider the cases have been severe and all of the 800-882-2056, x726 right away if they develop chest pain, short- individuals have recovered. April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 13 Smallpox vaccanation plan: Doing it right instead of rushed This response to a Cape Cod Times edito- “self-infl icted epidemic - not of the smallpox, The U.S. Senate is holding hearings on rial calling for nurses to “roll up their sleeves” So you think it’s safe at work? but of the infection with the live, potentially the smallpox campaign, and both federal appeared in that paper on March 10. fatal virus, vaccinia.” (January 30, 2003) and state authorities are considering ways Notes from the No worker who is injured or loses days to cover liability. Actually, both of these By Terri Arthur and Rosemary O’Brien worked from getting vaccinated will be problems would be greatly diminished if the It is not surprising that the public is Congress on Health compensated for wages lost because it is a vaccinated worker was simply given a paid confused about the decision of nurses and “volunteer” program, not work-related. Sen. furlough during the contamination time. their medical colleagues to question specifi c and Safety Edward Kennedy is working on legislation to The Massachusetts Nurses Association is aspects of the national smallpox vaccination provide appropriate funding to those injured working with Dr. Alfred DeMaria, Director program. This response is to address some skin rashes and eczema, or any of the auto- by the smallpox vaccine. The legal fi rm of of Communicable Disease Control for the very confusing information. Our medical immune syndromes such as lupus, diabetes, Jackson/Lewis has specifi cally addressed State Dept. of Public Health to resolve these community has chosen to move cautiously rheumatoid arthritis or fi bromyalgia. legal liability in their report “National issues. The MNA is also conducting a confer- until certain questions have been answered, Ironically, the very nurses and physicians Smallpox Vaccination Plan: Workplace Law ence for nurses to help prepare them for the especially those around putting the public who would be getting the vaccination would Implication for Health Care Facilities.” smallpox program. at risk. They should have been answered by be the same ones who would be in contact Should a vaccinated nurse or healthcare Nurses agree with the report written by the federal government before the smallpox with high risk patients. Nursing is physical worker inadvertently cross-infect another the Institute of Medicine who is the scientifi c program was started. work and the chance of this fl imsy dressing co-worker or worse yet, an immuno-com- body charged by the federal government to Here is the risk to the public: this vaccine being disturbed is very likely. It is supposed promised patient with the vaccinia causing consult with the Center for Disease Control on temporarily causes a wound full of smallpox- to protect others from cross contamination but adverse affects, that healthcare worker can the smallpox program. Published January 16, like virus. The wound can shed the virus and gives the public a false sense of security. be sued. 2003, it urges us not to rush into it but proceed can accidentally infect unvaccinated people In the New England Journal of Medicine The Jackson Lewis report concludes that with caution and do it right. — a disastrous possibility in a hospital full of article “How Contagious is Vaccinia,” Dr. “good intentions and the need for patriotic Terri Arthur of Falmouth and Rosemary very sick patients. Patients who should not Kent Sepkowitz, states that, “relatively little support are not defenses to the type of claims O’Brien of Harwich both registered nurses, are be exposed are those who are immunocom- is known about the spread risk of secondary that may pursue.” Legal activity is much chairwoman and vice chairwoman, respectively of promised or pregnant or have cancer, HIV transmission of this virus in the hospital set- higher today than it was 30 years ago. In those the Congress on Health & Safety, Massachusetts positive, or asthma, sick children, patients on ting.” He raises questions whether vaccinated days, everyone got vaccinated so the chance Nurses Association. steroids or chemotherapy or those who have workers remaining on the job could start a of cross-inoculation was not possible.

MNA members and others learning that your …Smallpox safety and health is your job security From Page 1 gram. “Until these issues are addressed,” she MNA members, staff said, “the MNA cannot encourage its mem- and visiting Japanese bers to participate in the DPH program.” nurses take a break from Additionally, the MNA continues to sup- the training, Applying port the position that liability protections be OSHA to Healthcare put in place in order to protect health care Settings on March 12 in Bourne. Pictured at right are, front row, from left, Tina Russell, Brockton Hospital, Yoshiko Kobayashi, assistant professor, Nagano Ken Nursing College; Junko Kobayshi, charge nurse, Numazu Chuo Hospi- tal; Sakura Kinoshita, staff nurse, Japanese Psychiatric Nursing Association; Mayumi Suzuki, nursing director, Numazu Chuo Hospital; Hiromi Ooya, nursing researcher, University of workers who may expose a patient or co- Shizuoka Ken; Evie Bain, worker to the vaccine virus. MNA staff. Middle row, Attendees at the “Applying OSHA to Healthcare Settings” training session in Bourne. The issue of vaccine safety as originally from left, Beryl Daley outlined in the MNA’s position statement and Debra Caruso, VNA also was discussed at the organization’s of Cape Cod; Harumi participate in our programs and get to enjoy accredited as a provider of Continuing Educa- March board meeting. As additional infor- Mihara, psychiatric RN, St. Elizabeth’s Medi- each others company for a brief period of tion by the American Nurses Credentialling mation about the vaccine strain has become cal Center, Karen Higgins, MNA president, time. The nurses return to Japan with infor- Center’s Commission on Accreditation. available, there has been increased discussion Boston Medical Center, Gerald Tierney, VNA mation and materials related to the work of The program is open to any nurse who about whether the version currently offered of Cape Cod. Back row, from left, Patty Vauld- the MNA on health and safety. is registered in Massachusetts. Participants in the United States is less reactive than other ing, Quincy Mental Health; Janet Butler VNA learn about OSHA resources and require- strains. The task force will continue to moni- 4 more training sessions of Southeastern Massachusetts; Kathy Sper- ments for a safe and healthy workplace tor and evaluate these reports and adjust its razza, MNA member and program trainer; There are four more opportunities to attend as well as how to address their concerns position statement accordingly. Kathleen McCarthy, Quincy Medical Center; Applying OSHA to Healthcare Settings. about unsafe working conditions with their For additional updates and information Mary Bellistri, Boston Medical Center; Elaine The training includes a four-hour program, employer. regarding the proposed smallpox vaccina- Mauger, MNA staff. followed by lunch and discussion and is sup- To see dates and locations of the remaining tion plan, please visit the news section of the The visiting Japanese nurses are guests ported by a grant from the Massachusetts training sessions turn to in the section MNA MNA’s Web site at www.massnurses.org. of Harumi Mihara. Several times each year, Department of Industrial Accidents. Continuing Education Courses on Page 18 of Any member interested in participating on Harumi brings nurse to this country to share There is no charge to attend this program. this edition. the MNA’s Smallpox Vaccination Task Force their accomplishment and learn what we are 4.4 contact hours will be awarded by the To register, call Susan Clish in the Depart- should contact Evie Bain at 781-830-5776 or doing. There is always a stop at the MNA to Massachusetts Nurses Association which is ment of Nursing at 781-830-5723. via email at [email protected]. Page 14 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003

Celebrate nursing excellence Honor your peers with a nomination for 2003 MNA awards

One of the greatest honors one can achieve is the recogni- Judith Shindul Rothschild Leadership Award: Recog- progressive ideas which serve to improve and enhance clini- tion of one’s peers. In this fast-changing health care system nizes a member and nurse leader who speaks with a strong cal nursing practice, including precepting students or new in which nurses daily strive to carry out their duties to their voice for the nursing community. staff nurses. patients, there is very little time for them to acknowledge MNA Advocate for Nursing Award: Recognizes the con- MNA Research Award: Recognizes a member or group their own professional accomplishments and those of their tributions of an individual, who is not a nurse, to nurses and of members who has conducted research in their practice or peers. the nursing profession. who have provided exemplary leadership to assist others in The MNA awards, established by the membership with the MNA Human Needs Service Award: Recognizes a nursing research. approval of the MNA Board of Directors, offer all members member who has performed services based on human Kathryn McGinn Cutler Advocate for Health & Safety an opportunity to recognize nurses who by their commit- needs with respect for dignity, unrestricted by consideration Award: This MNA award recognizes an individual or group ment and outstanding achievements have honored us all. of nationality, race, creed, color or status. that has performed outstanding service for the betterment These are often ordinary nurses accomplishing extraordinary MNA Image of the Professional Nurse Award: Recog- of health and safety for the protection of nurses and other things. They are the nurses who challenge us all to achieve nizes a member who demonstrates outstanding leadership health care workers. excellence. in enhancing the image of the professional nurse in the com- Frank M. Hynes Award: This award recognizes a deserv- For detailed information on selection criteria and to receive munity. ing freshman state legislator or municipal offi cial who has a nomination packet, call Susan Clish, MNA Department of MNA Nursing Education Award: Recognizes a nurse clearly demonstrated exceptional contributions to nursing Nursing, 781-830-5723 or toll free, 800-882-2056, x723. educator who has made signifi cant contributions to pro- and health care. Elaine Cooney Labor Relations Award: Recognizes a fessional nursing education, continuing education or staff MNA Legislator of the Year Award: This award recog- Labor Relations Program member who has made a signifi - development. nizes a senior state legislator who has clearly demonstrated cant contribution to the professional, economic and general MNA Excellence in Nursing Practice Award: Recognizes exceptional contributions to nursing and health care. welfare of nursing. a member who is a role model by contributing innovative, The nomination deadline is May 16, 2003.

Senior Nursing Students The Real Nursing World: Transition from Student to RN Don’t miss one of these unique programs offering you an opportunity to address questions or concerns to a panel comprised of recent graduates from various schools of nursing and experienced nurses with knowledge in nursing education, nursing administration, labor relations and career counseling. Area hospitals and other health care facilities will be available before and after the program to discuss employment opportunities. April 3, 2003 – 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. April 8, 2003 – 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. Holiday Inn, Worcester Lombardo’s Function Facility, Randolph April 9, 2003 – 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. Springfi eld Marriott, Springfi eld This program is free to all senior nursing students and space will fi ll fast! You must pre-register for the program. For more information, contact Theresa Yannetty at the MNA, 800-882-2056, x727.

THE REAL NURSING WORLD – TRANSITION FROM STUDENT TO RN April 3, 2003 – Holiday Inn, Worcester April 8, 2003 – Lombardo’s Function Facility, Randolph April 9, 2003 – Springfi eld Marriott Hotel, Springfi eld Name ______Permanent Home Address ______City ______State ______Zip______Home Telephone: ( ) ______Email ______I am a senior nursing student at ______My graduation date will be: ______My degree will be: ______Return completed registration form to: Massachusetts Nurses Association, Attn: Nursing Department, 340 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021 To email your registration, include the information requested above and send to: [email protected] April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 15

Communications Consent to Serve for the department adds Massachusetts Nurses Association 2003 Elections

2 professionals I am interested in active participation in the Massachusetts Nurses Association As the MNA continues to work with members, legislators and the public in the MNA General Election fi ght for safe staffi ng, improved patient care, ❑ President, General* (1 for 2 years) ❑ Nominations Committee, (5 for 2 years) [1 per district] better union contracts and the creation of a ❑ Secretary, General* (1 for 2 years) Bylaws Committee (5 for 2 years) [1 per district] single-payer health care system, there is an ❑ District Director, Labor* (5 for two years) [1 per district] Congress on Nursing Practice (6 for 2 years) increasing need to improve our communica- ❑ tion of important association/nursing news Director At-Large, General* (3 for 2 years) Congress on Health Policy & Legislation (6 for 2 years) and positions. As part of an effort to meet this ❑ Director At-Large, Labor* (4 for 2 years) Congress on Health & Safety (6 for 2 years) challenge, the MNA recently welcomed two ❑ Labor Program Member* (1 for 2 years) Center for Nursing Ethics & Human Rights (2 for 2 years) new staff members to its public communica- *General means an MNA member in good standing and does not have to be a member of the Labor Program Labor means an MNA member in good tions department: Amy Weston, associate standing who is also a labor program member. Labor Program Member means a non-RN Healthcare Professional who is a member in good standing of the director of Web site labor program. development, and Jen- nifer Johnson, associate Please type or print — Do not abbre vi ate director of media rela- Name & credentials ______tions. (as you wish them to ap pear in candidate biography) Weston, a graduate of both the University Work Title ______Employer ______of Massachusetts at Amherst and North- MNA Membership Number______MNA District______eastern University, holds a bachelor’s degree in art and a Jennifer Johnson Address ______master’s degree in information systems. Prior to joining the Cfty______State ______Zip ______MNA team, she worked as a Web programmer Home Phone ______Work Phone ______at The Providence Jour- nal, Rhode Island’s Educational Preparation largest daily newspaper−and was School Degree Year integral in launching the paper’s fi rst Web site. She also worked as a Web developer at Amy Weston the Providence-based advertising agency RDW Group where her client roster included Roger Williams Park Zoo, T.F. Green Airport Present Offi ces/Asso ci a tion Activities (Congress, Committee, Unit, etc.) and the YMCA of Greater Providence. Weston will spearhead the MNA’s Web development MNA District efforts, including strategic planning, creative design and information architecture. Johnson, who brings more than eight years of communications experience to the MNA, holds a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in communication studies from Bridgewater State College. Her experi- ence includes working as the public relations Past Offi ces/As so ci a tion Activities (Congress, Committee, Unit, etc.) Past 5 years only. manager at Wide Horizon For Children, a MNA District nonprofi t adoption agency, and managing numerous healthcare clients at the Boston offi ce of MS&L Public Relations. Her client roster included Agilent Technologies, The Angiogenesis Foundation and the Massachu- setts Department of Public Health. Johnson Candidates may submit a typed statement not to exceed 250 words for president and vice president and 150 words for all other will serve as managing editor of Massachusetts candidates. Briefl y state your personal views on health care, nursing and current issues including, if elected, what your major Nurse and will assist David Schildmeier, direc- contribution(s) would be to the MNA and in particular to the position which you seek. This statement will be used in the candidate tor of public communications, with media biography which will be printed in the Mass Nurse. Statements, if used, must be submitted with this consent to serve form. relations activities, including media and public relations campaigns to support MNA bargaining units. Signature of Member Signature of Nomi nator (leave blank if self-nom i nation)

Postmarked Deadline: Preliminary Ballot: March 15, 2003 Return To: Nom i na tions and Elections Commit tee MNA election dates Final Ballot: June 15, 2003 Massachusetts Nurses Association 340 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021 June 15 Deadline for consent to serve forms for fi nal ballot • Sept. 1 Ballots to be mailed Hand delivery of material must be to the MNA staff person for Nominations and Elections Committee only. • Sept. 20 Deadline for ballot return Expect a letter of acknowledgment (call by July 30 if none is received) • Oct. 1 Ballots to be counted Retain a copy of this form for your records. • Form also available on MNA Web site: www.massnurses.org Page 16 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003 MNA nominations & election policies & procedures 1. Nomination process and All policies, procedures and campaign preference over another. c. Write your address & zip notifi cation of nominees practices related to the MNA elections shall 5. Individual members may make volun- If this information is not on the mail- be distributed to candidates upon receipt of tary contributions of money, goods or ing envelope, the secret ballot inside A. All candidates for offi ce, submitting their nomination papers. Notice to all mem- services to a candidate. is invalid. papers to the Nominations & Elections bers of availability shall be published in the 6. The amount that a candidate may F. The ballot must be received no later Committee, shall be notifi ed in writing Massachusetts Nurse annually. expend in campaigning is not limited than ______AM/PM on ______, upon receipt of materials by the MNA by MNA. ______in order to be counted. staff person assigned to the Nomina- 4. Campaign Practices 7. MNA elected and appointed offi cials G. The ballots must be mailed to : ____ tions & Elections committee. The letter A. All candidates shall have access to the may endorse candidates. In the event ______MNA Secretary. of acknowledgement will identify the following: membership lists/labels; that the endorsement is to appear in Contracted Election Administrator offi ce sought. All notifi cations will be structural unit rosters; bargaining unit the Massachusetts Nurse, then and (Address) sent by MNA no later than June 5 of rosters; and MNA on site mailboxes. only then, the endorsements must [See Page 15 for this year’s election deadlines} each year. If no acknowledgment has Candidates may also have access to be verifi ed on the offi cial MNA Cam- been received by that date, it is the campaign space in the Massachusetts paign Endorsement Form and must 6. Observation nominees’ responsibility to contact Nurse and may request time on struc- accompany ad copy. However, no A. Each candidate or their designee who is MNA regarding the status of their tural unit and bargaining unit agendas. endorsements may carry identifi ca- a current MNA and/or Labor Relations nomination. The following conditions must be met tion as to the MNA offi ce held by the Program member is to be permitted to B. All candidates must be an MNA 1. Request for labels/lists/rosters* must endorser (see attachment A). be present on the day(s) of the mailing, member or Labor Program member in be in writing and signed by the can- 8. MNA staff shall not wear promotional receipt, opening and counting of the good standing at the time of nomination didates. All requests will be honored materials of any candidate or in any ballots. Notifi cation of intent to have and election. provided they comply with the MNA manner promote the candidacy of any an observer present must be received C. A statement from each candidate, if information/label request policies. individual. in writing or electronic message, from provided, will be printed in the Massa- 2. Requests from the candidate for 9. Candidates shall not use the MNA cor- the candidate, fi ve working days prior chusetts Nurse. Such statements should time on structural unit or bargaining porate logo on campaign materials. to the ballot counting date. be limited to no more than 250 words unit agendas must be in writing and 10. Campaigning or campaign materials B. Each observer must contact the MNA for the offi ce of president and vice directed to the appropriate chair. The are not allowed on MNA premises staff person assigned to the Nomina- president and 150 words for all other staff person for the group must also be with the following exceptions: tions & Elections Committee 5 working positions. notifi ed of the request. All candidates • When invited to a MNA struc- days prior to the day in question for 2. Publication of ballot for a specifi c offi ce must be provided tural unit or bargaining unit space allocation purposes only. with equal access and time. meeting. C. The observer must provide current A. Preliminary Ballot: All candidates who 3. Structural units and bargaining units • Meeting attendees may wear MNA membership identifi cation to are members in good standing shall may invite candidates to speak at a promotional material. election offi cials and authorization have their names printed on the ballot meeting. All requests must be in writ- • Access to MNA structural unit from the candidate. provided the nomination papers have ing with a cc to staff. All candidates and bargaining unit on site D. No observer shall be allowed to touch or been received by the Nominations & for a specifi c offi ce must be provided mailboxes is unrestricted. handle any ballot or ballot envelope. Elections Committee or designee by with equal access and time. E. During all phases of the election process, the deadline date established by the 4. All costs for labels/space in the Mas- 5. Ballot/voting instructions the single copy of the voter eligibility committee and communicated in the sachusetts Nurse, and mailing shall be A. Ballot will be mailed at least 15 days list will be present for inspection. Massachusetts Nurse. The order names the responsibility of the candidates. prior to the date which it must be F. All observers and candidates will keep are listed on the ballot is determined Labels will be provided at cost. Ad mailed back (postmarked). election results confi dential for 72 hours by random selection. space in the Massachusetts Nurse will B. Complete area (as per instructions on after the ballot procedure is completed B. Final Ballot: All candidates who are be at a specifi c advertising rate. form) next to the name of the candidate and certifi ed. members in good standing shall have 5. Records of requests received, the date of your choice. You may vote for any their names printed on the ballot of the request, as well as distribution of candidate from any district. 7. Candidate notifi cation provided the nomination papers have materials shall be kept by the Member- C. Do not mark the ballot outside of the A. Results of the MNA Election will be been received by the Nominations & ship Department. identifi ed area. made available to candidates (or their Elections Committee by the deadline 6. All campaign mailings utilizing D. Write-in votes shall not be considered designee) within 72 hours after comple- date established by the committee and MNA membership labels shall be valid and will not be counted. tion of the ballot counting. Only the communicated in the Massachusetts sent through a mailing house desig- E. Enclose the correct and completed names of those elected will be posted Nurse. nated by the MNA. Mailing utilizing voting ballot in an envelope (marked on the MNA Web site when all candi- The order names are listed on the ballot rosters may be done directly by the Ballot Return Envelope), which does not dates have been notifi ed after the ballot is determined by random selection by candidates. identify the voter in anyway, in order to procedure is completed and certifi ed. the Nominations & Elections Commit- 7. The membership list shall be available assure secret ballot voting. ONLY ONE Hard copies of the election results shall tee or their designee. for review/inspection, by appointment BALLOT MAY BE PLACED IN THE be sent to each candidate. All candidates will receive a draft copy with the Membership Department. ENVELOPE. B. Results of the MNA election will be of the Final Ballot prior to the Election Lists or records must remain on the All mailing envelopes will be separated kept confi dential until all candidates are Mailing for verifi cation purposes. premises. from the inner envelope containing the notifi ed. Notifi cation of all candidates Confi rmation/request for corrections to B. All candidates must follow acceptable ballot before the ballots are removed, will occur within 72 hours of certifi ca- the ballot should be made in writing to practices in the acceptance of goods, ser- to assure that a ballot can in no way tion of the election. the Nominations & Elections Commit- vices and contributions. This includes: be identifi ed with an individual voter. C. Results will include the following: tee or their designee postmarked within 1. Employers shall not provide money, (At the discretion of the Nominations • Number of total ballots cast for the 7 days of receipt of the draft ballot. supplies, refreshments or publication & Elections Committee, mailing enve- offi ce in question For uncontested positions the Nomina- of and “endorsement” on behalf of a lopes containing the voter’s name and • Number of ballots cast for the candi- tions & Elections Committee may solicit candidate. address may be checked off on a master date. candidates, accept late applications, and 2. Candidates may not use MNA, Dis- membership list. This process may be of • The election status of the candidate add to the ballot after the fi nal ballot trict or employer stationary to promote the total membership list, or randomly (elected/not elected) deadline with approval of the majority their candidacy. selected envelopes.) D. Any MNA member may access these of members of the Nominations & Elec- 3. Candidates may not use postage paid If the mailing envelope has been numbers by written request. tions Committee present and voting. for by MNA, District or an employer misplaced, another envelope can be E. Election results will be posted at the C. Ballot information: All inquiries related to mail literature to promote their substituted. This envelope must be annual meeting. to deadlines, status, policies, eligibility candidacy. addressed to: MNA Secretary, c/o to vote and receipt of ballots are to be 4. Neither MNA, its structural units or Contracted Election Administrator 8. Storage of election materials addressed to the staff person to the bargaining units may use dues money (address) A. Pre Election: All nomination forms and Nominations & Elections Committee for a function to promote the candi- In the upper left-hand corner of this all correspondence related to nomina- or a designee. dacy of a particular candidate. MNA envelope you must: tions shall be stored in a locked cabinet 3. Publication of policies/ may sponsor a function at which all a. Block print your name at MNA headquarters. The Nomina- candidates for a particular offi ce are b. Sign your name (Signature tions & Elections Committee and staff procedures/campaign practice invited and no candidate is shown required) See Election policies, Next Page April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 17

…Election policies Peer assistant nurse training course The MNA Addictions Nursing Council is pleased to announce it will be hosting a From Page16 peer assistant nurse training course on Monday, May 12, from 5 - 7:30 p.m. at MNA to the committee shall have sole access *Member List — a computer listing of the headquarters in Canton. There is no fee for the program. to the cabinet and its contents. total MNA membership eligible to vote, This program is designed as an orientation course to nurses who would like to B. Post Election: All election materials including name, address, billing informa- become part of the MNA’s team of peer assistants. The peer assistant program provides including ballots (used, unused and tion etc. confi dential assistance to nurses with substance use and chemical dependence related challenged), envelopes used to return *Membership Labels — computer generated problems. If you are a nurse who is knowledgeable in the area of addictions or a recov- marked ballots, and voter eligibility labels of the total MNA membership eli- ering nurse who is drug/alcohol free for a minimum of two years, we welcome you to lists shall be stored in a locked cabinet gible to vote, provided in keeping with attend the program. For more information on the peer assistant training course and/or at MNA headquarters for one year. The MNA Label Sales Policies. the mna peer assistant program, please contact Carol Mallia RN, MSN at 781-830-5755 Nominations & Elections Committee *Rosters — computer generated list of the or [email protected]. Chairperson and staff to the commit- Board of Directors of MNA and all MNA Contact hours and a light supper will be provided. tee shall have sole access to the cabinet structural units. List includes names and and its contents. addresses. *On-Site Mailboxes — areas at the MNA pro- 9. Post Election Press Release vided for communicating with structural The Department of Public Communications units and bargaining units. shall check the information on fi le/CV data Approved by Board of Directors: 5/16/02 for accuracy/currency with the elected can- Revised by Board Policy Committee 11/21/02 didate prior to issuing a press release. Approved by Board of Directors 12/19/02

MNA membership dues deductibility 2002 2003 MNF Golf Tournament Below is a table showing the amount and percentage of MNA dues that may not be To Benefi t Nursing Scholarships & Research deducted from federal income taxes. Federal law disallows the portion of membership dues used for lobbying expenses. Join us for a festive time

District Amount Percent Brookmeadow Country Club, Canton District 1 $15.33 4.5% Thursday, June 26 District 2/3 $15.33 4.7% 8 a.m. Shotgun Start District 4 $15.33 4.5% District 5 $15.33 4.4% Low Gross Prizes! State Chapter $18.01 4.8% Hole-in-One Contest! Putting Event! Raffl e & Prizes! Reserve early – Space is limited to 48 people per trip! Tournament Schedule: Continental Breakfast 7 a.m. MNA is sponsoring Shotgun Start 8 a.m. Lunch & Raffl e Noon 2 exciting group trips Putting Event 3 p.m. Yes, I want to join the fun at the MNF Golf Tournament! to Europe in 2003 Please reserve: May 26 - June 4 – Germany and Austria $1,569* ❏ Tickets at $99 each (greens fee, golf cart, breakfast & lunch) This 10 day/ 8 night grand tour of the Tyrolean ❏ Tickets at $35 each (lunch only) region will feature 6 nights in Austria and 2 nights in Germany. Trip includes tours of Innsbruck, Salzburg, ❏ I cannot attend, but please accept by donation of $______Rothenberg, Munich, Rattenberg, Wattens and Vipitino. Name______Air, transfers, hotel, breakfast and dinner daily as well as full sightseeing tours are included. Don’t miss this Daytime Phone ______grand tour of the picturesque Tyrolean Region. Address______October 21 - 29 – Montecatini Spa located in Tuscany Province, Italy $1469* City ______State ______Zip ______This all-inclusive trip to the Tuscany region of Italy includes tours to Florence, Venice, Pisa, Sienna, San ❏ I am not in a foursome, please select partners for me. Gimignano while staying in the world famous spa city ❏ Here are the names of the other members of my foursome: of Montecatini. Air, transfers, hotel, all meals as well as 2. ______full sightseeing tours are included. Offered as an all- inclusive trip, this package is a great value. 3. ______*Prices listed are per person, double occupancy based on check or cash purchase. Applicable departure taxes are not included in the listed prices above. 4. ______

To receive more information and a fl yer on these European vacations, Return this completed form with payment. Please make checks payable to MNF. please contact Carol Mallia, RN, MSN, 781-830-5755 or Send to Massachusetts Nurses Foundation, 340 Turnpike St., Canton, MA 02021 email at [email protected] 800.882.2056, x745 Page 18 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003 MNA Continuing Education Courses Your source for career training and advancement The Real Nursing World: Transition from Student to RN Nursing Management of Central Lines

Description Don’t miss one of these unique programs offering you an opportunity to Description This program describes the multiple venous access devices used in address questions or concerns to a panel comprised of recent graduates central line therapy. Indications for tunneled vs. non-tunneled lines and from various schools of nursing and experienced nurses with knowledge potential complications will be discussed. The nursing management and in nursing education, nursing administration, labor relations and career legal aspects in managing the care of these devices will be described in counseling. Area hospitals and other healthcare facilities will be available detail. before and after the program to discuss employment opportunities. Speakers Mary Walsh RN, BS, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN, facilitator Marilyn Bernard RN, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist Time 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. Date Thursday, April 24 Dates & Places Thursday, April 3, Holiday Inn, Worcester Time 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 8, Lombardo’s Function Facility, Randolph Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Wednesday, April 9, Springfi eld Marriott Hotel, Springfi eld Fee MNA members, $65 all others, $95 Fee Free to senior nursing students and faculty Contact hours* 3.0 MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Special notes Program limited to 20 participants. MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Applying OSHA to Healthcare Settings Advanced Cardiac Life Support Description Provided by a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents, this program teaches OSHA standards and the protections Description This American Heart Association course will provide information on the that they provide for the health and safety of workers in “general industry,” clinical management of cardiac and respiratory emergencies through which also apply to protect workers, including nurses, in healthcare set- case study approach. Course content includes assessment, arrhythmia tings. The goal of the grant is to train one or more members from each recognition, intubation, defi brillation and pharmacological interventions. MNA local bargaining unit as a “Worksite Health and Safety Representa- This is a two-day certifi cation and one day re-certifi cation course. Recer- tive.” tifi cation candidates must present a copy of their current ACLS card at Speakers MNA staff members Evie Bain and B. Elaine Mauger. Trainers Catherine the time of registration. Dicker, Joanne Whynot-Butler, Rosemary Connors, Patty Healey, Marcia Speakers Carol Mallia, RN, MSN, and other instructors for the clinical sessions Robertson, Janice Homer, Kathleen Opanasets, Rosemary O’Brien, Dates Tuesday, April 29 & May 6 (certifi cation); May 6 (recertifi cation) Nancy Mucciaccio, Elizabeth O’Connor, Nancy Adrian and Kathleen Time 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sperrazza. Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Time 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Fee Certifi cation: MNA members, $155; all others, $195 Dates & Places April 9, Unit 7, following State Council meeting at Indian Meadows, Recertifi cation: MNA members, $125; all others, $165 Marlboro Contact hours* 16 for certifi cation program. None for recertifi cation . May 14, District 2, Best Western Hotel (Royal Plaza Hotel & Trade Center), Special notes Light lunch provided. Enrollment limited to 48 participants. Marlboro MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 May 21, MNA Headquarters, Canton June 18, District 1, District 1 Offi ce, Northampton Emergency Medical Response Fee Free to MNA members MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 to Hazardous Materials and Acts of Terrorism Diabetes 2003: What Nurses Need to Know Description The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is sponsor- ing this program on emergency medical services in response to hazardous materials and acts of terrorism. The program is specifi cally designed for Description Session 1: This session will discuss the pathophysiology and classifi ca- physicians, nurses, EMTs, and hospital support staff to provide educa- tion of Diabetes Type 1 and 2. The nursing implications of blood glucose tion in the treatment of individuals exposed to chemical and biological monitoring will be discussed. Non-pharmacological interventions such as agents. The program will include identifi cation of hazardous materials, exercise and meal planning will be explained. The program will conclude toxicological and biological effects of chemicals and biological acts of with a discussion of oral pharmacological agents. terrorism. The chemical profi le of common agents, the decontamination Session 2: This session is designed to provide the nurse with a compre- procedures and personal protective equipment will be discussed. CDC hensive update on insulin therapy. The nursing management of the newly guidelines for surveillance of exposed nurses and other health care work- diagnosed diabetic patient, both complicated and not, will be explored. ers and nursing interventions for patient care will be identifi ed. Nursing management of the diabetic patient in the pre/post operative, Speakers Anthony Fucaloro, EMT ambulatory care, home care and school setting will be discussed. Capt. Lawrence P. Ferazani Speaker Ann Miller, MS, RN, CS, CDE, Evie Bain, RN, MEd, COHN-S Dates Session 1: Thursday, April 3 Dates Wednesday, May 7 Session 2: Thursday, April 10 Time 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Time 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Fee MNA members, $65 all others, $95 (Each session) Contact hours* 6.9 Contact hours* 3.6 each session Special notes Lunch provided. Class limited to 25. MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Verbal Self Defense for Nurses Advanced Dysrhythmia Interpretation

Description This program is designed to provide the nurse with the basic skills for Description This course is designed for nurses who have had a basic course in moni- managing confl ict in the workplace environment. Confl ict resolution toring patients for cardiac rhythm disturbances and wish to enhance that strategies are discussed. The program will conclude with an interactive knowledge base with more complex monitoring of advance dysrhythmias. discussion of case scenarios related to confl ict management. The course will describe the EKG changes related to ischemia, injury, Speaker Joe-Ann Fergus RN, BSN and infarct. The EKG abnormalities associated with toxic drug levels and Date Tuesday, April 15 electrolyte imbalances will also be described. The course will conclude Time 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. with an overview of pacemakers and common pacemaker rhythm distur- Place MNA Headquarters, Canton bances. Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN Contact hours* 3.3 Dates Tuesday, May 13 MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 April 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 19

Time 5:00- 9:00 p.m. Interpreting Laboratory Values Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Description This program will enhance the nurse’s ability to evaluate and determine Special notes Enrollment limited to 40 participants. the clinical signifi cance of laboratory values. Clinical case studies will be Contact hours* 3.2 used to illustrate the relationship of laboratory values to patient conditions. MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 Clinical management of abnormal laboratory values will be discussed. Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN Peripheral I.V. Therapy Program Date Monday, June 16 Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Description This program introduces the RN to the theory of peripheral venipuncture. Place MNA Headquarters, Canton It includes anatomy and physiology of the peripheral circulatory system, Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 fl uid and electrolyte imbalance, infection control and legal issues of the Contact hours* 4.1 practice of venipuncture. Classroom instruction will include procedural MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 demonstration and return demonstration on I.V. arms. Clinical experi- ence will not be provided. Acute Care Nursing: 3-Program Series: The three offerings of Wound Care — Dressing for Speakers Mary Walsh RN, BS, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist Success, Managing Cardiac & Respiratory Emergencies and Interpreting Laboratory Values Marilyn Bernard RN, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist have been grouped for a reduced package price. Register for all three and save $20. Date Thursday, May 15 Time 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Acute Care Nursing: 3-Program Series Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Fee MNA members, $65; all others, $95 Special notes Certifi cate of attendance will be awarded MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 Emergency Medical Response

to Hazardous Materials and Acts of Terrorism Acute Care Nursing: 3-Program Series: The three offerings of Wound Care — Dressing for Success (June 5), Managing Cardiac & Respiratory Emergencies (June 10) and Interpreting Description The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is sponsor- Laboratory Values (June 16) have been grouped for a reduced package price. Register for ing this program on emergency medical services in response to hazardous all three and save $20. materials and acts of terrorism. The program is specifi cally designed for physicians, nurses, EMTs, and hospital support staff to provide educa- tion in the treatment of individuals exposed to chemical and biological agents. The program will include identifi cation of hazardous materials, toxicological and biological effects of chemicals and biological acts of The District 1 Education Committee Presents terrorism. The chemical profi le of common agents, the decontamination Interpreting Lab Values procedures and personal protective equipment will be discussed. CDC Description A program to enhance the nurse’s ability to evaluate and determine guidelines for surveillance of exposed nurses and other health care work- the clinical signifi cance of laboratory values. Clinical case studies will ers and nursing interventions for patient care will be identifi ed. be used to illustrate the relationship of laboratory values to patient Speakers Anthony Fucaloro, EMT conditions. Clinical management of abnormal laboratory values will Capt. Lawrence P. Ferazani be discussed. Evie Bain, RN, MEd, COHN-S Speaker Carol Mallia,RN, MSN Dates Tuesday, June 3 Date Thursday, May 8 Time 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Place Berkshire Community College, Pittsfi eld Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Time 4:00 -9:00 p.m. Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Fee Student/Retiree $10, Member $15, Non-Member $20 Contact hours* 6.9 Contact hours* 4.1 Special notes Lunch provided. Class limited to 25. Registration deadline: April 24, (no refunds after that date) MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Make check payable to: District One, MNA, 243 King St., Northampton, MA 01060 Wound Care — Dressing for Success

Description This program will provide a comprehensive overview of the factors Important Information for all courses affecting wound care and strategies for managing complex wounds. A thorough review of wound products will enable the attendee to select the Registration Registration will be processed on a space available basis. Enroll- optimal dressing based on clinical fi ndings. New dimensions of wound ment is limited for all courses. care, such as growth factors, hyperbaric oxygen, electrical stimulation, Payment Payment may be made with MasterCard or Visa by calling MNA or cultured skin replacements and vacuum-assisted closure devices will by mailing a check to MNA, 340 Turnpike St., Canton, MA 02021 also be discussed. Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN, CWOCN Refunds Refunds are issued up to two weeks before the program date Date Thursday, June 5 minus a 25% processing fee. No refunds are made less than 14 Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. days before the program's fi rst session or for subsequent ses- Place MNA Headquarters, Canton sions of a multi-day program. Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Program MNA reserves the right to cancel programs when registration Contact hours* 4.5 Cancellation is insuffi cient. MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 *Contact Continuing Education Contact Hours are provided for all programs Hours except Advanced Cardiac Life Support by the Massachusetts Managing Cardiac & Respiratory Emergencies Nurses Association, which is accredited as a provider of continu- ing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Description This course is designed for registered nurses in acute, sub-acute and Center’s Commission on Accreditation. Contact hours for long-term care settings to learn the clinical management of cardiac and Advanced Cardiac Life Support is provided by the Rhode Island respiratory emergencies. Clinical management of chest pain, brief EKG State Nurses Association, which is accredited as a provider of interpretation, ABG interpretation and clinical management of respiratory continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credential- distress will also be discussed. ing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN To successfully complete a program and receive contact Date Tuesday, June 10 hours, you must: 1. Sign in. 2. Be present for the entire time Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. period of the session. 3. Complete the evaluation. Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Chemical Scents may trigger responses in those with chemical sensitivity. Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Sensitivity Please avoid wearing scented personal products and refrain from Contact hours* 4.0 smoking when you attend MNA continuing education programs. MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Page 20 Massachusetts Nurse April 2003

MNA Member Benefi ts Save You Money

MNA’s premier group benefi ts programs from affordable insurance to convenient credit LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE SERVICE help you get more out of your membership & your hard-earned money! Take advantage of ALLIANCE SERVICES ...... (888) 922-SAVE these special benefi ts specifi cally designed for MNA members. Savings are just a telephone 4.9 cents/minute for long distance calls & 5% discount (vs. Verizon) on local service – 7 call away. days a week, 24 hours a day! Prepaid discount international calling cards also available. Personal & Financial Services CELLULAR TELEPHONE SERVICE CINGULAR WIRELESS...... (800) 894-5500 PORTABLE HEALTH INSURANCE Lowest rate possible $8.95/month plus $.37/minute off peak with free nights (7:00 PM to ELLEN KAPLAN, GROUP HEALTH SPECIALISTS...... (800) 604-3303 OR (508) 875-3288 6:59 AM – an MNA exclusive) & free weekends. Managed care & comprehensive indemnity plans through Blue Cross/Blue Shield as well JIFFY LUBE DISCOUNT as other carriers. MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ...... (800) 882-2056, X726 PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE Obtain an MNA Discount card to receive 15% discount on automobile products & NURSES SERVICE ORGANIZATION ...... (800) 247-1500 (8:00 AM TO 6:00 PM) services. Leading provider of professional liability insurance for nursing professionals with over CONSUMER REFERRAL SERVICE 650,000 health care professionals insured. MASS BUYING POWER...... (781) 829-4900 CREDIT CARD PROGRAM A consumer referral service offering super savings on products & services. Visit MBNA AMERICA...... (800) 847-7378 their Web site at www.massbuy.com (Password MBP) Exceptional credit card at a competitive rate includes $300,000 worth of HIV insurance DISCOUNT ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES protection. HOME ENTERTAINMENT DISTRIBUTORS...... (800) 232-0872 OR (781) 828-4555 TERM LIFE INSURANCE Home electronics & appliances available at discount prices for MNA members. LEAD BROKERAGE GROUP ...... (800) 842-0804 OIL NETWORK DISCOUNT Term life insurance offered at special cost discounts. COMFORT CRAFTED OIL BUYING NETWORK ...... (800) 649-7473 LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE Lower your home heating oil costs by 10 – 15%. WILLIAM CLIFFORD ...... 800-878-9921, EXT. 110 DISCOUNT TAX PREPARATION SERVICE Flexible and comprehensive long-term care insurance at discount rates. TAXMAN INC...... (800) 7TAXMAN SHORT TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE 20% discount on tax preparation services. LESTER L. BURDICK, INC ...... (800) 959-9955 OR (978) 683-3400 WRENTHAM VILLAGE PREMIUM OUTLETS Six-month disability protection program for non-occupational illnesses & accidents. Simply present your valid MNA membership card at the Information Desk at the LONG TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE Wrentham Village Premium Outlets to receive a VIP Coupon Book offering hundreds of LEAD BROKERAGE GROUP ...... (800) 842-0804 dollars in savings. Provides income when you are unable to work due to an illness or injury. Travel & Leisure RETIREMENT PROGRAM HERTZ CAR RENTAL DISCOUNT AMERICAN GENERAL FINANCIAL GROUP/VALIC...... (800) 448-2542 Specializing in providing retirement programs including 403(b), 401(k), IRA, NQDA, HERTZ ...... (800) 654-2200 Mutual Funds, etc. MNA members discounts range from 5 – 20% mention MNA discount CDP#1281147. DISCOUNT MOVIE PASSES Products & Services MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ...... (800) 882-2056, X726 Purchase discount movie passes for Showcase/National Amusements, Hoyts & AMC AUTO/HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE Theaters. Call to order over the telephone with Mastercard or Visa. MANSFIELD DISCOUNT HOTEL & TRAVEL PRIVILEGES OLONIAL NSURANCE ERVICES OR C I S ...... (800) 571-7773 (508) 339-3047 CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL (SOS PROGRAM)...... (800) 258-2847 WEST SPRINGFIELD 20% discount on participating Comfort, Quality, Clarion, Sleep, Econo Lodge, Rodeway BATES FULLAM INSURANCE AGENCY ...... (413) 737-3539 & MainStay Suites, Inns & Hotels. Advanced reservations required mention SOS BOSTON Program #00801502. Membership in Guest Privileges Frequent Traveler Program. ROBERT S. CLARK INSURANCE AGENCY...... (800) 660-0168 DISCOUNT TRAVEL PROGRAM TO FLORIDA, BAHAMAS & LAS VEGAS LOWELL EXECUTIVE TOUR & TRAVEL SERVICE...... (800) 272-4707 (RESERVATIONS) JAMES L. CONNEY INSURANCE AGENCY ...... (978) 459-0505 (877) 406-4836 (ATTRACTION TICKETS) WOBURN 4 day/3 night discount on “Getaway Vacations” to Florida, Bahamas & Las Vegas. Visit LENNON INSURANCE AGENCY...... (781) 937-0050 Web site at www.exectourtravel.com. Mention MNA group number 15187. FALMOUTH & POCASSET MURRAY & MACDONALD INSURANCE SERVICES...... (800) 800-8990 CENTRAL FLORIDA AREA ATTRACTIONS TURNERS FALLS THE OFFICIAL TICKET CENTER ...... (877) 406-4836 PARTRIDGE ZCHAU INSURANCE AGENCY...... (413) 863-4331 Discount admission to Orlando area attractions including Walt Disney World, Universal Save up to 18% for all household members. For a no obligation quote visit Studios, Sea World; Kennedy Space Center & others. www.nursesinsurance.com UNIVERSAL STUDIOS T HEME PARK FAN CLUB DISCOUNT DENTAL & EYEWEAR PROGRAM MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ...... (800) 882-2056, X726 KENNETH FRANSSON OR DAVE FRASER ...... (800) 697-4371 Fan Club membership entitles you to discounts at Universal Studios Theme Parks, 45% to 50% on dental services when utilizing network dentists. 10% to 60% discount discounts on merchandise and on-site hotels on eyewear through nationwide vision providers. Only $7.95/month individual or $8.95 family for MNA members. Your participation in these programs increases the Association’s purchasing DIGITAL PAGERS power allowing the MNA to add and improve benefi t programs. For information INTERNET PAGING...... (800) 977-1997 on any of our discount programs, contact the specifi c representative listed or call Discount digital pager program. Chris Stetkiewicz in the MNA membership department, (800) 882-2056, x726.

For more information, call the Massachusetts Nurses Association at 1-800-882-2056, x726.