January/February 2003

Inside… New lead sponsors of single-payer health care ...... 2

President’s column: proud to be an RN...... 3 THE NEWSLETTER OF THE MASSACHUSETTS NURSES ASSOCIATION  www.massnurses.org  VOL. 74 NO. 1 Challenging wage caps ...... 3

Come celebrate MNA’s 100-year anniversary MNA on Beacon Hill: On an unusually warm evening on Feb. event, the MNA is organizing buses to and RN’s moving forward ...... 4 26, 1903, more than 300 nurses from across Feb. 26 events highlights from the event, which can be accessed from the commonwealth gathered at the historic • Ceremony in Gardner Auditorium at locations across the state. Buses also will Capitol Hill Watch ...... 4 Faneuil Hall in Boston to form an organization the State House, 5 p.m. take participants to Faneuil Hall from the • Rally and ceremonies at Faneuil Hall that would fight for legislation to regulate the State House. To learn more about bus trans- MNA legislative agenda...... 5 practice of professional nursing in Massachu- (site of MNA founding), 5:30 p.m. portation and to reserve a seat on the bus, • Cocktail reception and birthday party setts, which eventually resulted in the passage please contact Dolores Neves at 781-830-5722; MNA Elections: of the Nurse Practice Act, the legal underpin- at Quincy Market Rotunda, 6:30 p.m. email [email protected]. To expedite secu- Consent-to-serve form ...... 9 ning for all nursing practice in our state. The rity checkpoint passage at the State House, next day, a Boston Globe headline succinctly feature a special ceremony and press event please refrain from carrying non-essential Positions available...... 16 told the story: “Nurses Organize.” in Gardner Auditorium at the State House belongings to the event. In the words of nursing historian Mary in Boston at 5 p.m. (Note: previous mailings “The primary objective of this event is to MNA union news: Ellen Doona, “The Massachusetts State and promotion for this event touted a nurses’ allow nurses to revel in their history and their Contract settlement updates .....10 Nurses Association was born that winter’s candlelight march from the State House to accomplishments as a profession,” said Karen day – February 26, 1903; and, the nurses made Faneuil Hall, but this portion of the event was Higgins, MNA president. “However, we also MNA member benefits ...... 11 clear to the world, as had others in historical canceled because of concerns for public safety wanted to use this milestone to underscore places before them, that they were willing to and the potential for inclement weather.) This our continued commitment to fight for qual- Health care without harm ...... 12 fight for their ideals and would prevail.” will be followed by a rally and special celebra- ity patient care. It is interesting that while the As the 100-year anniversary of the MNA’s tion at Faneuil Hall at 5:30 p.m. (the details organization was formed to create a Nurse Travling with MNA...... 17 founding approaches, a committee of mem- are a surprise, but nurses will not want to Practice Act to govern our nursing practice bers has planned a special celebration to miss this show), culminating with cocktail and protect the citizens of the commonwealth, A look back at convention.....18-19 mark the occasion, providing nurses with reception and cake-cutting ceremony at Ned our ability to fulfill our legal and ethical obli- a unique opportunity to gather together to Divine’s in the Quincy Market Rotunda (next gations to our patients is compromised by the MNA annual awards ...... 20 celebrate and demonstrate “The Evolution door to Faneuil Hall) at 6:30 p.m. lack of safe staffing and adequate working of the Nursing Revolution.” The event will To make it easier for nurses to attend the conditions.” n MNF scholarship winners...... 21

98 legislators have already signed onto bill Continuing Education ...... 22-23 MNA files new legislation to regulate RN-to-patient ratios The MNA is filing new legislation that An in-depth look at the would require all Massachusetts hospitals state’s voluntary smallpox to adhere to Department of Public Health -established minimum RN-to-patient ratios vaccination plan as a condition of licensure by DPH. To date, 98 legislators have signed on to the bill, rep- n The role of nurses resenting nearly 50 percent of the legislative body. n Fact sheets “To achieve this level of legislative interest this early in the process is a significant sign n Who should not get vaccinated of the growing support for this important measure,” Charles Stefanini, MNA Director n MNA’s position of Legislation and Government Affairs said at a December press conference at the State See Pages 14-16 House. “We actually had legislators lining up to have an opportunity to add their name to this bill. The work we did in the last session, and the publicity and scientific research that has been generated in recent months has made RN staffing a hot-button issue for the upcoming session.” The press event drew significant media cov- MNA leaders join Executive Director, Julie Pinkham at a press conference introducing erage, resulting in several stories appearing MNA safe staffing bill. For the latest in the state’s major newspapers, as well as developments 10 patients on a given shift, placing thousands generating a number of broadcasts on radio American Medical Association (JAMA) shows of patients at risk for serious complications impacting nurses, and television news stations. that for each additional patient assigned to and death (See related story on Page 6). The filing of the legislation follows the visit the an RN, there is a 7 percent increase in the “The scientific evidence is clear and over- recent release of prominent research studies MNA web site, likelihood of death within 30 days from a whelming: when nurses have too many and reports that clearly demonstrate that complication not present upon admission to patients, patients’ lives are in jeopardy. The www.massnurses.org safe RN staffing produces dramatic cuts in the hospital. The difference between 4 to 6 and evidence also makes clear that poor staffing patient mortality and is a key element in stem- 4 to 8 patients per nurse is accompanied by 14 conditions in Massachusetts hospitals have ming the flood of RNs from Massachusetts percent and 31 percent increases in mortality caused and are exacerbated by a growing hospitals. respectively. It is common for nurses in Mas- The most recent study in the Journal of the sachusetts to be assigned 6, 8 and even up to See RN-to-patient, Page 7 Page 2 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 3

Nurses’ Guide to Single Payer Reform

Bill would guarantee affordable, first-class health care Tolman, Hynes sign on as new lead sponsors for single payer legislation The Massachusetts Campaign for Single patients' care is being limited. The time has care, and dental coverage) by consolidating Travaglini, is now the Senate president, who Payer Health Care (MASS-CARE), a coali- come to halt the patchwork financing of this the funding of health care, thereby capturing by tradition does not act as a lead sponsor on tion of over 80 labor, professional, health present system and adopt a new system a large share of the 25-30 cents of every dollar any legislation. The former lead sponsor in care provider, religious and advocacy orga- which will assure all of adequate and appro- that now goes to administrative costs such as the House, Rep. Kevin Fitzgerald, retired at nizations, including the MNA is proud to priate health care." paperwork, marketing and profits and spend- the end of last session. Both Travaglini and announce the new lead sponsors of a bill Entitled "The Massachusetts Health Care ing it instead on providing care to the 418,000 Fitzgerald have been instrumental in build- that would create a single payer health care Trust," the bill would guarantee every Mas- Massachusetts residents who now have no ing support for single payer health care in the system in Massachusetts. They are Sen. Steven sachusetts resident affordable, first class insurance at all and to the many other "under- General Court. Tolman (D-Brighton) and Rep. Frank Hynes health care coverage by creating a single insured", with inadequate coverage. The single payer movement was given a (D-Marshfield). public entity called the Health Care Trust Financially distressed health facilities boost last month when former Vice Presi- Hynes stated, “I am pleased to have this to replace multiple insurance bureaucra- would reap administrative savings and be dent Al Gore said that he believed the only opportunity to work with those who, for cies now responsible for paying for health assured secure budgets, allowing them to way to solve the crisis in health care was years, have been committed to the concept care. deliver high quality care. This bill would with a single payer system. As happened of universal health care access at a reason- Studies have shown that we already spend also restore individuals' freedom to choose with the Children's Health Insurance Plan able price. Our present health care system enough on health care in the commonwealth the health care professionals and facilities (CHIP), once again Massachusetts can lead is collapsing: costs are rising exponentially; to provide quality care for all our residents they prefer. the nation in instituting needed health care providers are overworked and underpaid; (including prescription drugs, longterm The past lead sponsor in the Senate, Robert reform. n FactSheet: Mass. Health Care Trust legislation Nurses give RX for healthcare reform at GE strike rally On January15, MNA Board member and directed the crowd to “stand together, today What this bill does chair of MassCare Peggy O’Malley was a with the GE workers, and in the future wher- featured speaker at a rally held in support ever any of us are fighting for health care.” This legislation guarantees every Massachusetts resident first class health care coverage by of striking GE workers in Lynn, who were For relief of symptoms of she prescribed sup- replacing the current patchwork of public and private health care plans with a uniform and waging a two-day strike over rising health porting S 686, the Massachusetts Health Care comprehensive health plan. It creates a single public entity called the Health Care Trust to care premiums. The rally focused on the Trust bill creating a single payer health care replace all the present public and private bureaucracies. The trust, appointed by the Governor, growing health insurance crisis and its impact system in the state. To make it happen, she will have representation from consumers, professionals and government. It will: on working people and the need for reform of urged attendees to tell their state legislators n Oversee the delivery of health care services to Massachusetts residents, with emphasis our health care system. O’Malley concluded “that you want them to help pass S. 686. All on universality, rational and effective allocation of resources, preventive medicine and her remarks by giving the crowd her pre- of us need to actively participate and refuse to the need for health care choices to be made by provider and patient. scription for improving health care. First, she accept any more needless suffering.” n n Collect and disburse funds for the purpose of providing comprehensive health care for all residents of the Commonwealth. These funds will derive from current State MNA’s Margaret O’Malley takes reins of MassCare and Federal expenditures for medical care, additional public and private sources to be Massachusetts Nurses Association direc- proposed by the Trust following completion of a study undertaken by the Legislature in the early '90s. tor at-large Margaret “Peggy” O’Malley Since 1998, she and sales taxes on products that tend to increase health costs. has been elected chair of the Massachusetts has served as the n Negotiate or set fair and reasonable methods and rates of compensation with providers Campaign for Single Payer Health Care liaison between of medical services and with health care facilities and approve capital expenditures in (MASS-CARE), a coalition of over 80 labor, MNA and MASS- excess of $500,000. professional, health care provider, religious, CARE. and advocacy organizations, including the O’Malley was Why we need this bill now MNA. She replaces outgoing chair Dick disabled from n Massachusetts spends more on health care than any other state in the U.S., yet over Mason, who has led the organization since clinical practice in a million of our residents have no health insurance or are underinsured! We already its inception. 1995 from a work- spend enough on health care in the Commonwealth to provide quality care for all of It's a bit daunting for anyone to step in related, indoor air our residents. Under this bill, money that currently goes to administrative costs such and try to fill the shoes of our longtime chair, quality induced Dick Mason. Nevertheless, with promises illness. “Finding as paperwork, marketing and profits would be spent on providing care. In 1987 we had Margaret O’Malley 368,000 uninsured in Massachusetts, as of 2000 we had 636,000. The number of uninsured from everyone that they'd help me, and myself unable to with enormous hope and enthusiasm for our almost doubled despite the fact that we added over 140,000 to the public rolls. provide patient cause, I've begun, since my election Nov. 9, care directly, my focus has been on caring n We currently pay for health care many times over. As taxpayers, we pay for the public taking on the duties of chair, with Dick as my for patients "from a distance" by advocating programs that make up almost half of direct health care spending. We pay for tax coach and mentor. We have a great deal of for patients and nurses through MNA and subsidies for employers who offer health insurance, whether our own employer offers work to do. We have an excellent foundation political activism,” she said. coverage or not. As individuals, if we get employer-based coverage, we pay our share upon which to build. We have the strongest, She has been an elected leader at MNA of the premium, and, on average, earn about 20 percent less than we would otherwise to most committed group of members and since 1988, serving nine years on the Cabi- cover the employer's share. Then we pay cash out of pocket for co-pays and deductibles. allies. And we have a message and a cause net for Labor Relations and on the Board Businesses and individuals who buy liability insurance (auto, homeowners, product) that people everywhere respond to and are of Directors since 1997, holding the office pay for health care coverage for the people hurt, regardless of whether those people eager to learn about.” of vice president between 2000 and 2002 already have coverage -- only insurance companies benefit from this duplicative arrange- O’Malley has been an RN for 25 years, O’Malley is a founding member of the MNA ment. with all her years of clinical experience Steering Committee for the Statewide Cam- as a bedside nurse, mostly at Brigham & n By replacing private dollars with public ones and making funding of health care more paign for Safe Care, where she heads up the Women’s Hospital. In 1987, she became Single Payer Task Force. equitable, most individuals and Massachusetts businesses would, on average, pay no concerned about how political decisions She is also the co-chair, with another RN, more than they do now for health care. Coordinating funding through a single payer were effecting nurses’ ability to properly of Partners for Addison Gilbert Hospital, a (Health Care Trust) will save enough in administrative costs to pay for the health care care for patients. group of Cape Ann citizens fighting to pre- needs of all Massachusetts residents. Over time, savings from planning and positive To learn more about what she could do serve local access to a full range of clinical changes in service delivery could save additional health care dollars. to address the problem, she enrolled in the services at Gloucester’s 105-year old com- n Unlike our present health care system, the system created by this bill allows patients real "Women in Politics" program at Boston Col- munity hospital where services have been choice. They can pick their provider or elect to enroll in HMOs. Care decisions will be lege during which she served as an intern in cut drastically since 1995 when the hospital, made by patient and provider together with the goal of maximizing health rather than the office of the Senate chair of the Health in response to unprecedented pressure from by insurance companies trying to maximize profits. Peer review, utilization review and Care Committee, Sen. Edward Burke, during insurers, merged with a large health care cor- capital spending approval requirements will prevent inappropriate use of resources. the year in which universal health care was poration, Northeast Health Systems which enacted in Massachusetts, only to be repealed n n operates Beverly Hospital. Page 2 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 3

President’s column MNA turns 100 – something to be proud of, something to celebrate By Karen Higgins ization of nurses planning for Feb. 26. Our 100th Anniversary provided a practice environment that allows MNA President and all its benefits Planning Committee has developed an excit- them to practice safely. Of course, this means The front and back page of this month’s and advancements ing and memorable event that will properly passing legislation to regulate RN-to-patient Massachusetts Nurse highlight a significant would not have mark this historic occasion. It will include a ratios in our hospitals as a first step. event in the history of this organization, as occurred. Without special ceremony in Gardner Auditorium at Once nurses arrive at Faneuil Hall, we are well as a significant opportunity for nurses the MNA and with- the State House (where so many decisions planning a special “surprise” program that to do what we so rarely do – stop to revel out the incredible are made that govern our practice and affect will acknowledge this milestone, while enter- in who we are and what we do as profes- work and dedica- our patients). This will be followed by a rally taining and rallying participants. You won’t sionals. tion of hundreds and celebration at Faneuil Hall, the birthplace want to miss this event. On Feb. 26, 2003, we will indeed celebrate and thousands of of the American Revolution and the nursing And finally, we will move next door to the the 100th anniversary of the founding of its members and revolution. Buses will be made available from Quincy Market Rotunda for a cocktail recep- our organization – an organization founded leaders over these throughout the state to transport you to and tion and birthday party, where we can kick with the mission of establishing nursing in last hundred years, Karen Higgins from the celebration, so you don’t need to back and enjoy the company and camaraderie the commonwealth as an independent profes- we would not know worry about parking or driving in the city. of our friends and colleagues. sion dedicated to providing quality care to the nursing as we now know it today. As part of the celebration, we intend to So please, plan on attending this event if public. This is no small milestone. I’m not sure We need to acknowledge and celebrate kickoff the event by giving nurses white car- you can. We’re also encouraging each of our many members even realize how long this these accomplishments. We need to gather nations that they can ceremoniously place at bargaining units to organize a delegation of organization has existed and all that it has together as a community of nurses and the foot of the nurses’ statue in Nurses Hall. their members to come to the event with a done to create the professional stature we now activists to honor the evolution of the nursing These carnations will symbolize those of our sign or banner with their facility’s name on enjoy. Without the MNA, there would be no revolution that has occurred in Massachusetts number who have left the profession because it, so we can identify all the local bargaining Nurse Practice Act to govern nursing practice, because of so many nurses’ original and of the untenable conditions that now exist. units that belong to the organization. In addi- there would be no Board of Registration in ongoing commitment to come together as We will also invite the media to cover this tion, schools of nursing are encouraged to also Nursing, there would be no code of ethics for a professional association to fight for nurses ceremony. We want to use this as an opportu- send a delegation with a banner. nurses in Massachusetts, nurse practitioners and for our patients. nity to send the message that the work and the This is once in a lifetime event for all of and other advanced practice nurses would That is why I encourage every member who mission of MNA and of all nurses cannot and us. I hope you can be a part of our efforts to not have prescription authority, the union- can to attend the special celebration we are will not be fulfilled unless and until they are continue to make nursing history! n Joint effort to challenge nurse wage caps By Kathy Perry introduced by the agencies for consideration Massachusetts hospitals. The MNA has just The new regulations contained a surprising Vice President, Favorite Nurses Temps in next year’s legislative session. Additionally, filed a bill, An Act Ensuring Quality Patient exception for travel nurses coming from more In response to efforts by the state’s Health the group is preparing a possible challenge to Care and Safe Registered Nurses Staffing, than 200 miles away from their assignment (in Care Financing Administration to implement the regulation in the Massachusetts Supreme which would regulate RN-to-patient ratios effect, from outside the state). These are just and expand regulations that would effectively Judicial Court. in Massachusetts Hospitals. the nurses hospitals use to break strikes. limit wages paid to agency nurses in the MNA Executive Director Julie Pinkham The division, ignoring good advice, issued Therefore, by acting to suppress nurse commonwealth, the Massachusetts Nurses said it plainly in recent testimony before final regulations on Nov. 5 that restricted the wages in the midst of severe shortage, the reg- Association and the nurse agency Favorite the Massachusetts Division of Healthcare agency rate wage component to year 2000 ulation singles out already over-worked and Nurses, along with the Massachusetts Asso- Finance and Policy, “Regulation of wages is levels released by the Massachusetts Hos- under paid nurses in its misguided attempt ciation of Nursing Agencies have met recently certainly not going to solve the nursing crisis. pital Association and adjusted by a mere 2.2 to contain health care costs. This unequal and to discuss joint strategies to seek an end to It certainly is not going to help the patients of percent per year consumer price index factor. discriminatory treatment does not stop there. the regulations. Massachusetts.” The division did this in spite of testimony The division adds insult to injury by favoring Nursing agencies in Massachusetts — typi- Pinkham testified that the MNA believes provided by the firm of Pricewaterhouse Coo- foreign nurses and nurses from other states cally high wage paying employers — are now the true solution to the problem of staffing pers recommending use of a more relevant over its own resident nurses. limited by regulation to rates tied to the wages in hospitals lies not with regulating wages, — and much higher — Massachusetts wage Nurses interested in joining in the lawsuit paid by their lower paying customers. but with the implementation of regulations inflation index published by the Bureau of should contact [email protected]. Legislation to repeal this rate setting was calling for minimum RN-to-patient ratios in Labor Statistics. n

Diversity is alive and well at the MNA The MNA Diversity Committee has • Representatives from the Diversity Diversity Committee goals for 2002 worked hard over the past year and would Committee attended the Haitian – 2003: like to share with our fellow MNA members Nurses Association Banquet. • Continue to publish diversity related and the nursing community at-large our • Hosted an educational exchange articles in the Massachusetts Nurse recent efforts and our goals. with a nursing student who is a • Provide diversity education to the Accomplishments for 2001 – 2002: board member to the Royal College MNA staff and MNA members • Refined the goals and mission of the of Nursing. • Review the MNA policies and pro- MNA Diversity Committee. • Proposed recommendations for revi- pose recommendations to the MNA • Sponsored the educational program sions to the MNA goals, missions Board of Directors “Healthcare Rationing and Divided and objectives to the MNA Board of • Develop a new diversity scholar- Loyalties“ by Susan Herz JD, MPH at Directors. ship the MNA Annual Convention 2001. • Published the following articles in • Explore coalition and networking • Presented reports to the MNA Board the Massachusetts Nurse: opportunities with minority nurs- regarding military advertisements in • “Εxperiences of a Japanese ing organizations the Massachusetts Nurse. nurse transitioning to the United • Explore mentorship opportunities • Committee members served on States,“ by Harumi Mihara RN, with minority nursing students the following MNA Committees: MSN in the August 2001 issue. The committee meets monthly at the MNA Convention Committee, Safe Staff- • “Questions raised about the headquarters in Canton. We are actively ing Steering Committee and the Armed Forces Ads in MNA seeking member input into future efforts Nomination Committee. publications” by Beverly Dan- of the Diversity Committee. We extend this • Exhibited the Diversity Committee drige and Sharon McCollum in invitation to the membership at large to come Poster Presentation on “Assump- the September 2001 issue. to one of our upcoming meetings. For more tions” at the NERBNA Annual • “Japanese Nurse Exchange” information please contact Carol Mallia at Convention and the MNA Annual by Deborah Martin RN in the 781-830-5755 or [email protected]. n Convention. November 2001 issue. Page 4 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 5

MNA on Beacon Hill

Legislative session 2003-04: RNs moving forward ISSN 0163-0784 USPS 326-050

By Charles Stefanini The filing of the risk for serious complications and death. President: Karen Higgins MNA Legislative Director legislation follows The scientific evidence is clear and over- Vice President: Patrick Conroy I want to begin by thanking all those the recent release whelming: when nurses have too many Secretary: Sandy Eaton that got themselves involved during the of prominent patients, patients’ lives are in jeopardy. Treasurer: Janet Gale recent political campaigns this fall. Nurses research studies Nurses are not alone in their desire for throughout Massachusetts engaged in the and reports that minimum RN-to-patient ratios. Support District Directors, Labor: District 1: political process to elect candidates that clearly demon- among the public for this legislation is Patricia Healey, Lois Cross; District 2: supported their ideals and their agenda. The strate that safe RN strong in Massachusetts. A poll of Massa- Edith Harrigan, Mary Marengo; District time, effort and energy that so many people staffing produces chusetts residents found that more than 75 3: Stephanie Stevens, Tina Russell; Dis- put forward is to be commended. Virtually dramatic cuts in percent of the public supports legislation trict 4: Jeanine Hickey, vacant; District 5: everything that you do as a registered nurse patient mortality regulating RN-to-patient ratios. And last Barbara Norton, Teana Gilinson. and health care professional is affected by the and is a key ele- May, more than 80,000 Bay State residents Directors (At-Large/Labor): Sandy decisions made by our elected officials. We ment in stemming Charles Stefanini signed petitions calling upon the legislature Ellis, Denise Garlick, Kate Maker, must elect those that are supportive of issues the flood of RNs to pass a measure requiring an improved Sharon McCollum, Beth Piknick, important to us. from Massachusetts hospitals. RN-to-patient ratio. Elizabeth Sparks, Jan Spicer. Most importantly, nurses used the elections The most recent study in the Journal of The work that so many of you have done as an opportunity to continue to talk about the American Medical Association (JAMA) has moved our issues forward and propelled Directors (At-Large/General): Liz issues important to their profession – the shows that for each additional patient their debate. Joubert, Rick Lambos, Jim Moura, ongoing nursing crisis, safe staffing legisla- assigned to an RN, there is a 7 percent In order to pass a meaningful piece of Margaret O’Malley, Deb Rigiero, Jean- tion, recruitment and retention. increase in the likelihood of death within legislation we must continue to work hard, nine Williams, vacant. As the 2003-2004 legislative session begins 30 days from a complication not present educate the public and policymakers and get Labor Program Member: Beth Gray- in Massachusetts, we have much to look for- upon admission to the hospital. The differ- involved. Included in this issue you will find Nix ward to. ence between 4 to 6 and 4 to 8 patients per an article entitled, “What you can do to pass For the 2003-2004 legislative session the nurse is accompanied by 14 percent and 31 safe staffing.” This legislation will not pass Executive Director: Julie Pinkham MNA has filed legislation that would require percent increases in mortality respectively. It without everyone’s involvement calling Editor: David Schildmeier all Massachusetts hospitals to adhere to mini- is common for RNs in Massachusetts to be their legislators, writing their legislators Production Manager: Erin M. Servaes mum RN-to-patient ratios as a condition of assigned 6, 8, and even up to 10 patients on a and attending meetings and events in their Photographer: Rosemary Smith licensure by Department of Public Health. given shift, placing thousands of patients at area. n Mission Statement: The Massachu- setts Nurse will inform, educate and Congress stakes out health care positions meet member needs by providing timely information on nursing and health care In mid-November, former Vice President who work for small firms, Kennedy’s plan passed by the Republican-controlled House. issues facing the nurse in the Common- Al Gore, a potential Democratic presidential would create a program similar to Medicare The Senate Finance Committee next year wealth of Massachusetts. Through the candidate in 2004, surprised many when he to provide coverage. Those enrolled in the will likely draft prescription drug benefit editorial voice of the newsletter, MNA declared that he has “reluctantly come to program would pay co-payments based on legislation based on a “tripartisan” bill that seeks to recognize the diversity of its the conclusion” that a “single-payer” health a sliding scale. failed earlier this year. The bill -- sponsored membership and celebrate the con- system would be the best way to insure all Vermont Gov. Howard Dean (D), who is by Sens. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), who will tributions that members make to the people in the United States. Gore said, “We expected to announce his bid for the presi- likely assume the chair of the Senate Finance nursing profession on the state, local spend so much per person on health care, if dency, has proposed expanding insurance Committee next year; Orrin Hatch (R-Utah); and national levels. we spent it in a different way, we could have coverage by implementing a system used in Olympia Snowe (R-Maine); John Breaux not only the best health care system in the Vermont. Under the plan, Medicaid would (D-La.); and James Jeffords (I-Vt.) -- would Published nine times annually, in world, but we could have everyone covered.” cover everyone under age 23, with the fed- cost $370 billion over 10 years. Under the January/February, March, April, May, During the 2000 presidential primaries, Gore eral government covering the cost of seniors legislation, Medicare beneficiaries would June/July, August, September, October lambasted Senator Bill Bradley’s call for uni- enrolled in the program. Dean also supports have to pay a $24 monthly premium and and November/December by the Mas- versal coverage as being too costly. providing tax credits to employers who offer a $250 annual deductible, after which the sachusetts Nurses Association, 340 health coverage. federal government would cover 50 percent Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021. Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.) recently formed of their annual prescription drug costs up to Subscription price: $20 per year an exploratory committee to raise funds for a $3,450. After Medicare beneficiaries spent Foreign: $28 per year possible presidential campaign. $3,700 out-of-pocket, the government would Single copy: $3.00 Capitol Hill cover 90 percent of their annual prescription Watch Upcoming health care issues drug costs. Republicans will likely address Periodical postage paid at Canton, MA George W. Bush doesn’t want to make the tax credits for the uninsured, malpractice and additional mailing offices. same mistake his father did by neglecting tort reform, a scale-back patients’ rights bill domestic issues while bombing Iraq. With as well as privatized drug coverage in the Deadline: Copy submitted for publica- Republican control of the White House and next Congress. tion consideration must be received at One week later, Sen. Ted Kennedy (D- Congress, some version of a privatized Medi- MNA headquarters by the first day of Mass.) gave a speech at the Harvard School care prescription drug benefit and a scaled Health care costs continue to rise the month prior to the month of publi- of Public Health in which he said that he back patient rights legislation are likely to Employers nationwide anticipate their cation. All submissions are subject to will push for universal health care, a Medi- become law. By the time of the 2004 elections, health costs will rise 14.6 percent next year, editing and none will be returned. care prescription drug benefit and increased Bush wants to have something to tout. on top of a 14.7 percent increase this year, Medicare reimbursements for providers when Postmaster: Send address corrections Senate Republicans next year may use a a rate nearly seven times inflation and the Congress convenes in January. Kennedy to Massachusetts Nurse, Massachu- special budget process called reconciliation sharpest rise since 1990, according to a indicated that he will introduce legislation setts Nurses Association, 340 Turnpike to limit the scope of a Medicare prescription new survey conducted by Mercer Human that would require employers with five or Street, Canton, MA 02021. drug benefit bill and prevent a Democratic Resources Consulting. The National Survey more workers to provide health insurance filibuster. Under reconciliation, lawmakers of Employer-Sponsored Health Plans 2002 www.massnurses.org coverage to workers and their dependents. would establish the cost of the program examined 2,900 public and private employ- Under Kennedy’s plan, employers would in a budget resolution, a move that would ers nationwide. According to the survey, pay 75 percent of the cost of coverage and eliminate the “60-vote hurdle” that prevented increased hospital charges accounted for most employees would pay 25 percent. The govern- passage of a prescription drug benefit in the of this year’s cost increase. Prescriptions drug ment would provide subsidies to low-income Senate earlier this year. While that hurdle pre- prices also increased this year, but less than in workers to help cover the cost of premiums. vented the Democratic-controlled Senate from past years -- a 16.9 percent increase in 2002, Kennedy estimates that his plan would pro- passing a good Medicare drug bill, it was also compared with 17.8 percent in 2001 and 18.3 vide coverage for 80 percent of the 41 million the only way it was able to stop the bogus bill percent in 2000. n uninsured. For those who are unemployed or Page 4 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 5

RNs on the political front-line: MNA efforts help elect 51 legislators Coming off the heals of an extremely suc- political strength. Nurses held “Nurse for . . .” so many ways. So many members across the safe RN staffing legislation. Nurses worked cessful primary election, registered nurses campaigns signs, made phone calls, displayed state displayed extraordinary efforts during vigorously for legislators who are directly won 51 out of 56 legislative races in the fall lawn signs in their front yards, attended cam- the campaign for governor and many state involved in the political decision making election cycle. In doing so, the MNA has paign events and rallies and hosted coffee legislative seats. Nurses held signs, hosted process. Additionally, nurses had an impact transformed itself from a political novice to parties in their homes for candidates. MNA coffees in their homes for candidates, did on legislative races for members of the health a political force to be reckoned with. members were highly active in the political mailings, standouts, made phone calls and care committee, which sets health care and Nurses were successful in electing can- process throughout the election cycles. organized in districts. The MNA and MNA nursing policies. didates who support pro-nurse initiatives RN’s engaged themselves in the election RNs were featured in candidates’ TV com- Let us remember – our work has just begun! including nurse-to-patient ratios. The MNA cycle of 2002 like never before. mercials, ads, mailers and phone calls. Now that we have helped elect pro-nurse also played a significant role in electing two The time, effort and energy that so many The MNA has gained strong allies in the legislators, we must pass the safe staffing of its own – registered nurses Mary Grant and members invested across the state enhanced legislature through our hard work over the legislation. Our work for these legislators has Jennifer Callahan. MNA’s political profile and created a strong past five months. There were over 20 new created a foundation for us to build from. Let Across the state — from Northampton foundation for us to move forward in the legislators elected on Nov. 5, many of whom us use this foundation and pass safe staffing to Boston, from Newburyport to Sandwich political arena. Members throughout the were endorsed by the MNA and already have legislation! A listing of all the legislators MNA — registered nurses demonstrated their state dedicated and donated their time in pledged to support our quality patient care/ helped elect can be found below. n

MNA-endorsed candidates elected House Colleen Garry, D-Dracut Brian Wallace, D-Boston Cory Atkins, D-Concord Anne Gobi, D-Spencer Martin Walsh, D-Boston Garrett Bradley, D-Hingham Emile Goguen, D-Fitchburg Steve Walsh, D-Lynn Jen Callahan, D-Sutton Mary Grant, D-Beverly Alice Wolf, D-Cambridge Gale Candaras, D-Wilbraham Brian Knuuttila, D-Gardner Mark Carron, D-Sturbridge Peter Kocot, D-Northampton Senate Vincent Ciampa, D-Somerville David Linsky, D-Natick Steven Baddour, D-Methuen Edward Connelly, D-Everett Barbara L’Italien, D-Andover Stephen Brewer, D-Barre Mike Costello, D-Newburyport Paul Loscocco, R-Holliston Susan Fargo, D-Lincoln Bob Coughlin, D-Dedham Robert Nyman, D-Hanover Harriette Chandler, D-Worcester Robert DeLeo, D-Revere Vincent Pedone, D-Worcester Jack Hart, D-Boston Paul Demakis, D-Boston Alice Peisch, D-Wellesley Bob Hedlund, R-Weymouth Christopher Donelan, D-Orange Michael Ruane, D-Salem Cheryl Jacques, D-Needham Jamie Eldridge, D-Acton Robert Spellane, D-Worcester Brian Joyce, D-Milton Mark Falzone, D-Saugus Harriett Stanley, D-Merrimac Michael Knapik, R-Westfield Michael Festa, D-Melrose Kathleen Teahan, D-Whitman Therese Murray, D-Plymouth John Fresolo, D-Worcester Walter Timilty, D-Milton Pamela Resor, D-Acton William Galvin, D-Canton Tim Toomey, D-Cambridge Susan Tucker, D-Andover Two RNs, Mary Grant (D-Beverly), left, and Jennifer Callahan, (D-Sutton), are among newly elected legislators. They joined MNA Executive Director Julie Pinkham, NursePLAN Chair Sandy Ellis and MNA President Karen Higgins at the Statehouse. MNA proposes comprehensive 2003-2004 legislative agenda The MNA engages in a comprehensive of patients at risk for serious complications mix ratios; as well as nurse-sensitive patient turnover of providers experienced by these membership-driven process to file and work and death. outcomes, such as patient falls, nosocomio families. Lead sponsor: Sen. Steven Tolman. towards passage of legislation that addresses “The scientific evidence is clear and over- infections, bedsores, patient satisfaction and An Act Relative To A Nurse Deputy Com- the concerns of its members. This included whelming: when nurses have too many medical errors, readmission rates and length missioner At the Department of Public a Blue Ribbon Commission that conducted patients, patients’ lives are in jeopardy. The of stay. Lead sponsor: Rep. Cory Atkins. Health. Nursing plays an essential and dis- statewide hearings and an outreach program evidence also makes clear that poor staffing An Act to Ensure Safe Medication tinct role in the safe delivery of health care. through the MassNurse. The following is a conditions in Massachusetts hospitals have Administration. This bill would mandate This bill would raise the profile of nurses in compilation of bills approved by the MNA’s caused and are exacerbated by a growing that only licensed professionals may admin- health care policymaking, by establishing a Congress on Health Policy and Legislation shortage of nurses willing to work in hos- ister Schedule II - VI medications. It would director of nursing position, responsible for and the MNA Board of Directors. pitals,” said MNA President Karen Higgins. reverse regulatory changes which teach and working with the commissioner to ensure The following bills address safe staffing/quality “Passage of this legislation is key to improving mandate unlicensed direct care personnel to that nursing-related issues are adequately of nursing care/patient safety issues. care for our patients and to creating condi- administer all schedules of medications in monitored and considered as the department An Act Relative to Quality Patient Care tions that will retain and recruit the nurses group home settings, after only a 16-hour carries out its mandate to protect the public and Safe Registered Nurse Staffing. This we need to provide safe patient care.” course and state certification. Those who can health. Lead sponsor: Sen. Pam Resor. legislation would require all Massachusetts Nurses are not alone in their desire for min- self administer, have family or have personal An Act Relative to a Registered Nurse hospitals to adhere to Department of Public imum RN-to-patient ratios. Support among care attendants to aid with self administration Seat on the Public Health Council (new). Health-established minimum RN-to-patient the public for this legislation is strong in Mas- are exempt from the requirements of this leg- The Public Health Council has existed for ratios as a condition of licensure by DPH. The sachusetts. A poll of Massachusetts residents islation. It will also be structured to capture decades. The role of the council currently filing follows the recent release of prominent found that more than 75 percent of the public medication errors along with other systems, is primarily to approve certificates of needs research studies and reports that clearly supports legislation regulating RN-to-patient which collect this information. Lead sponsor: for health care facilities and new regulations demonstrate that safe RN staffing produces ratios. And last May, more than 80,000 Bay Sen. Marc Pacheco. in relation to health care delivery. There has dramatic cuts in patient mortality and is a key State residents signed petitions calling upon An Act Relative to Improvements in never been a nursing position on the mostly element in stemming the flood of RNs from the legislature to pass a measure requiring an Private Duty Nursing Care for Develop- consumer board. There are a number of Massachusetts hospitals. improved RN-to-patient ratio. Lead sponsor: mentally Disabled Children. Because of physician positions. This bill would create a The most recent study in the Journal of the Rep. Christine Canavan, RN. poor compensation, and lack of appropriate nursing position on this important council. American Medical Association (JAMA) shows An Act Relative to a Patient’s Report training, there is serious shortage of nurses to Lead sponsor: Sen. Richard Moore. that for each additional patient assigned to Card of Nursing. When nurses advocate provide home care to developmentally dis- The following bills protect the economic an RN, there is a 7 percent increase in the for improvements in staffing and changes in abled children in the Commonwealth. This and general welfare of nurses likelihood of death within 30 days from a skill mix ratios to improve patient care, the bill would improve the care of children who An Act Requiring Health Care Employ- complication not present upon admission to industry claims there is not data to support are developmentally disabled and in need of ers to Develop and Implement Programs to the hospital. The difference between 4 to 6 and these claims. If this data is collected, facilities home care services by creating a training pro- Prevent Workplace Violence. This bill would 4 to 8 patients per nurse is accompanied by 14 have no legal obligation to share it with policy gram for the care of these children and a stable mandate a comprehensive workplace violence percent and 31 percent increases in mortality makers or the public. This bill would mandate pool of qualified nurses. Further, the nurses prevention program, along with counseling respectively. It is common for RNs in Massa- that all hospitals, clinics, long term care facili- would be employed by the state and would program for victims of workplace violence chusetts to be assigned 6, 8, and even up to 10 ties and HMOs track and report to the public also be granted benefits and commensurate patients on a given shift, placing thousands annual data regarding staffing levels and skill salaries in an attempt to decrease the rapid See Agenda, Page 9 Page 6 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 7

Acclaimed Medical Journals Show: Safe RN-to-Patient Ratios Save Lives

The MNA’s call to regulate RN-to-patient ratios has been substantiated by a number of research studies and reports. In the last six months, strong scientific evidence for this measure has been provided by some of the most respected medical/health care researchers.

Study in the Journal of  study of 232,000 surgical patient discharges found “the higher the patient-to-nurse the American Medical Aratio in a hospital, the more likely there will be patient deaths or complications after Association (JAMA) surgery.” Each additional patient per nurse is associated with a 7 percent increase in mortality. The — Hospital Nurse Staffing difference between 4 - 6 and 4 – 8 patients per nurse would be accompanied by 14 percent and Patient Mortality, Nurse and 31 percent increases in mortality respectively. The researchers also found that each Burnout, and Job Dissatisfaction, additional patient per nurse is associated with a 23 percent increase in burnout and a 15 October 2002 percent increase in job dissatisfaction. In conclusion the authors state that nurse staffing ratio legislation is a “credible approach to reducing mortality and increasing nurse retention in hospital practice” and … Improvements in nurse staffing resulting from the legislation could be accompanied by declines in nurse turnover.”

Study by the Harvard School  study of more than 6 million patient discharges at 799 hospitals in 11 states, including of Public Health in the New AMassachusetts, found that registered nurse staffing has the biggest impact on patient England Journal of Medicine outcomes. The researchers found relationships between nurse staffing and six adverse patient — Nurse Staffing and the outcomes--urinary tract infections, pneumonia, shock and cardiac arrest, upper Quality of Care in Hospitals, gastrointestinal bleeding, failure to rescue, and length of hospital stay-in medical and major May 30, 2002 surgery patients treated in hospitals. They found higher RN staffing is associated with up to a 12 percent percent reduction in these adverse outcomes.

Report by the Joint  he report states that inadequate staffing levels have been a factor in nearly a quarter of Commission on Accreditation Tmost serious life-threatening events that have been reported to the Commission in the of Health Care Organizations last five years. (JCAHO) The JCAHO report analyzed more than 1,600 serious incidents from 1996 through 2002 and found that nurse staffing levels were a contributing factor in 50 percent of ventilator- — Health Care at the Crossroads, related incidents, 42 percent of surgery-related incidents, 25 percent of transfusion Strategies for Addressing the incidents, 25 percent of delays in treatment, 25 percent of infant abductions, 19 percent of Evolving Nursing Crisis, medication errors, 14 percent of inpatient suicides and 14 percent of patient falls. August 2002 According to the JCAHO report, “When there are too few nurses, patient safety is threatened and health care quality is severely compromised.” Page 6 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 7

…RN-to-patient ratios From Page 1 to determine and, too often, those staffing shortage of nurses willing to work in hospi- decisions are primarily driven by financial tals,” said MNA President Karen Higgins, RN. and budgetary factors. As the health care “Passage of this legislation is key to improving system has moved to a deregulated, free care to our patients and to creating conditions market system, where competition and cost that will retain and recruit the nurses we need drive the industry, the pressures to cut nurse to provide safe patient care.” staffing and the resources allocated to nursing Nurses are not alone in their desire for min- have escalated. This has resulted in dramatic imum RN-to-patient ratios. Support among cuts in nurse staffing levels and an increase in the public for this legislation is strong in Mas- the number of patients each nurse is expected sachusetts. A poll of Massachusetts residents to care for. found that more than 75% of the public sup- This legislation attempts to reverse these ports legislation regulating nurse-to-patient trends by mandating nurse staffing that is suf- ratios. And last May, more than 80,000 Bay ficient to care for the planned and unplanned State residents signed petitions calling upon needs of patients. It is based upon significant the legislature to pass a measure requiring an nursing research and experience. The major improved RN-to-patient ratio. As part of the provisions of the legislation include: press conference, the MNA displayed a three- • All acute care hospitals would be foot high stack of the petitions for the media required to adhere to DPH-mandated to witness and capture on camera. minimum RN-to-patient ratios as a Similar legislation was passed in Califor- condition of licensure by DPH. nia in 1999, where ratios are scheduled to be • Minimum ratios are established for implemented in 2003. While MNA has filed different types of units/departments safe staffing legislation in the past, the new in a hospital. The proposed law calls bill is based on the most recent scientific data, for one nurse for every four patients the experience in California and on recom- in medical/surgical units, where State Sen. Harriett Chandler, the longest standing member of the Joint Committee on mendations made by a special legislative most patient care takes place. In Health Care was one of 98 legislators who have signed onto the MNA’s bill to regulate commission, chaired by State Rep. Christine emergency departments, the pro- RN-to- patient ratios in hospitals. Canavan (D-Brockton) in 2001, which released posed regulations require between acuity of the patients assigned to a by hospitals as a means of staffing a report recommending the regulation of a 1-to-1 and a 1-to-3 ratio depending nurse, the ratio would be improved if hospitals in lieu of recruiting enough RN-to-patient ratios as a means of address- on the severity of the patient’s condi- those patients require more intensive nurses to provide safe care. ing the nursing crisis in Massachusetts. Rep. tions. Ratios are 1-to-1 in labor and care (meaning the nurse would be • Clear language related to the role Canavan, who is a registered nurse, is the 1-to-2 for intensive care units while assigned fewer patients). This provi- of the licensed nurse and the inabil- lead sponsor for the bill, which is entitled other units range from a 1-to-1 to 1- sion meets one of the key objections ity for institutions to delegate to “An Act Ensuring Quality Patient Care and to-5 ratio. of the hospital industry, which has unlicensed personnel duties which Safe Registered Nurse Staffing.” • To provide flexibility in staffing and argued that establishing minimum demand nursing expertise. Through- to account for patients who require ratios without this acuity system out the 1990’s, the hospital industry What the bill does more care, the bill calls upon DPH meant that patients who need more attempted to cut costs by replacing Currently, there are no legal or regulatory to create an acuity-based patient care would not receive it. nurses with unlicensed personnel, mandates to ensure that patients receive classification system, which is a • The bill prohibits the practice of which led to a deterioration in patient a level of nursing care that is based upon standardized formula for rating assigning nurses mandatory over- care, and helped create the current accepted standards of nursing practice the illness level of patients (a tool time as a means of meeting the ratios. shortage of nurses. or on their actual need for care. Instead, to measure how sick the patients are Mandatory overtime has been used • Strong consumer protections for safe nurse staffing is left to individual facilities on a particular unit). Based on the RN staffing including a “prominent posting of the daily RN-to-patient How you can help pass RN-to-patient ratio legislation ratios” on each unit; and Winning passage of our quality patient Whether this is your first or your 500th Join the new MNA email network. • Each facility will provide each patient care/safe staffing legislation will require the foray into politics, we think you’ll have fun Often the MNA needs to communicate with and/or family member with a toll- support and activism of the nursing commu- with it. For more information please contact members and legislators quickly about pend- free hotline number for the Division nity. There are a number of ways individual Kate Anderson at the MNA 781-830-5713, ing bills. Members of the Email Network will of Health Care Quality at DPH, which nurses can become involved in the process [email protected]. be called on to take action and communicate may be used to report inadequate of convincing the legislature to support and Contact your senator and representative. with legislators on important issues through- nurse staffing. Such a complaint move this bill. Here are some simple sug- If they have signed on as a cosponsor of out the year. Email [email protected] shall cause investigation by DPH to gestions. quality patient care/safe RN staffing legisla- to sign up. Please include your name, home determine whether any violation of Hold (or attend) a legislative briefing on tion, thank them. If not, ask them to join 98 of address, bargaining unit, and your current law or regulation by the facility has safe staffing in your community. their colleagues as a cosponsor. Provide them email address. occurred and, if so, to levy a fine for A legislative briefing is a time for you and with some insight into your job as a front-line Have a member of the Congress on Health substantiated violations. other RNs in your community to get together nurse. Tell them why you support safe staff- Policy & Legislation speak to members of In addition to this bill, the MNA will work with local legislators and discuss the need for ing legislation. Share a personal story with your bargaining unit. with Senate Health Care Committee Chair safe RN staffing. MNA staff and members of them. For legislators’ contact information or Encourage members of your bargaining Richard Moore on a comprehensive package the Congress on Health Policy and Legisla- if you don’t know who your legislator is, go unit to get more involved in the Campaign of bills he has filed to address the nursing tion will help you set up the briefing, contact to: www.wheredoivotema.com/electedofficials.php for Quality Patient Care by bringing the infor- shortage. Included in his package is the legislators and provide background and train- or www.vote-smart.org/index.phtml. mation to your unit. For more information Clara Barton Nursing Excellence Program, ing materials. Get support from non-nurses. please contact Kate at the MNA, 781-830- which would provide nursing scholar- Setting up a legislative briefing is easy and Do you belong to a parent/teacher orga- 5713 or [email protected] and we will ships for students entering the profession, is a great way to involve your nursing col- nization (PTO), a church, a neighborhood coordinate with your elected bargaining unit establish student loan repayment programs, leagues in your bargaining unit. Our goal is group or a town committee? Arrange a time chair. The MNA also will provide a speaker and a signing bonus for those who have to have a briefing in approximately 20 senate to present information on how RN staffing to any nursing school, nursing organization demonstrated an excellence in nursing. It districts in the state in the next five months! affects everyone. Invite your PTO to formally or community group would provide grants to healthcare institu- We need your leadership to get this done. endorse the MNA legislation. Ask your town Spread the word! tions and institutions of higher education As the year progresses, continue to check committee to pass a resolution supporting the Talk to members in your bargaining unit for the establishment and maintenance of the Massachusetts Nurse, your local bargain- quality patient care/safe RN staffing legisla- and other colleagues about becoming activists a mentoring and internship program for ing bulletin boards or the MNA web site at tion. Invite seniors in your community group with the MNA. Let other nurses know about new nurses. www.massnurses.org to find out if and when to get more involved by contacting their legis- opportunities to contact legislators, volunteer Senator Moore’s efforts last session legislative breakfasts may have been sched- lators. For more information or for materials, with campaigns, and make their voices heard. helped establish a center for patient safety uled in your area and make sure you attend contact Jason Silva at the MNA, 781-830-5740 Encourage them to check the MNA website and to monitor medical errors in the com- those briefings. or [email protected]. often to get updates, www.massnurses.org. n monwealth. n Page 8 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 9

The road to victory begins with one small step Specific RN-to-patient ratios By Michael D’Intinosanto RN She challenged us to Valley Hospital in Haverhill, Whiddon Hos- called for by this bill Chair, MNA Congress on Health Policy and carry that torch to win pital and Waltham Hospital Intensive Care Unit 1:2 Legislation safe staffing ratios for and Waltham Hospital, and all of you who Critical Care Unit 1:2 A short two years ago, the staff nurses and our patients in Mas- supported them with your lobbying efforts to Neo-natal Intensive Care 1:2 allied health care professionals of the MNA sachusetts. keep these community hospitals open. You Burn Unit 1:2 set out on an historic journey to save our Last year, we took helped assure their patients would get health Step-down/Intermediate Care 1:3 profession and protect our patients. Over that message to the care in their community. Operating Room 2,400 nurses, the largest gathering of regis- public with impres- Thanks to all of you who worked this fall Under Anesthesia 1:1 tered nurses in one place in Massachusetts sive results. MNA to redraft our safe staffing bill. You helped to Post Anesthesia 1:2 history, came together at Mechanics Hall in radio advertisements make it the best it could be. Post Anesthesia Care Unit Worcester to cast an overwhelming vote in broadcast our mes- Thanks to all of you who worked on spe- Under Anesthesia 1:1 favor of an independent MNA. Our message sage to hundreds of cial elections last year and on all the races Post Anesthesia 1:2 and direction coming out of that meeting was M. D’Intinosanto thousands of citizens. for MNA endorsed candidates this year. Emergency Department 1:3* heard loud and clear. The previously tried Hundreds of our Your efforts did not go unnoticed. Thanks to Emergency Critical Care 1:2* corporate-oriented solutions to the nursing members went out into their communities the MNA Board of Directors for its diligent Emergency Trauma 1:1* crisis were not in our best interests, and we to circulate petitions and gather signatures leadership. Thanks too to the MNA staff who, * The triage, radio or other specialty RN were no longer going to stand by and watch of public support for our RN staffing bill. without their commitment and focus to our shall not be counted as part of this number. the demise of our profession. We were going More than 80,000 residents signed onto that cause, all this would not be possible. Labor and Delivery to take control of our destiny for the sake of petition in just nine days during National Thanks to all of you who have taken steps, Active Labor 1:1 our profession and the patients we serve. Nurses Week. large and small, to get us where we are today. Immediate Postpartum 1:2 Since that time, we have been singularly Time and again, we have answered those The members of the MNA are on the cutting (one couplet) focused on the most important cause of the calls to action with ever increasing energy edge of healthcare policy and legislation. Postpartum 1:6 nursing crisis, unsafe staffing, and the only and intensity. This letter is a note of thanks When we went into the 2001/2002 legislative (three couplets) solution that will turn this tragedy around to every member who has taken up the cause session, we filed our safe staffing with about Intermediate Care Nursery 1:4 — legislation to mandate safe RN-to-patient to protect our profession and our patients a dozen sponsors. We closed the session with Well-Baby Nursery 1:6 ratios. by participating in the legislative process. about 40, but in the process gained support Pediatrics 1:4 Leading up to that March 2001 meeting, Thanks to all of you who have done so much of many more. This is evident in the list of Psychiatric 1:4 the MNA Congress on Health Policy and over these last two years. sponsors for the 2003/2004 session. As of the Medical and Surgical 1:4 Legislation hosted the largest lobby day Thanks to all of you who helped organize filing deadline, we had 98 legislators signed Telemetry 1:4 ever. Over 400 nurses came to the Great Hall or attended the over 20 legislative briefings on, nearly half of the house and senate. There Observational/ at the Statehouse to reaffirm that we needed across the state. You helped to raise awareness are many others who, while they have not Outpatient Treatment 1:4 safe staffing ratios to stop the hemorrhaging in the legislature of our need for safe staffing, signed on, pledge their support. This would Transitional Care 1:5 of nurses from the profession. and increased support for our legislation. not have been possible without the work of Rehabilitation Unit 1:5 Specialty Care Unit 1:4 In the March 2001 MNA past president Thanks to all of you who attended lobby so many. So, once again, Thank You. (any unit not otherwise listed above shall Denise Garlick called on us all to help carry days in 2001 and 2002. With every story told, Please check the list of sponsors of our safe be considered a specialty care unit) the banner of our cause in any way possible. we win the support of another legislator. staffing bill in this month’s newsletter. If your Note: These ratios constitute the minimum To solve the nursing crisis, everyone needed Thanks to the Brockton Hospital nurses and legislator is listed, please send them a note of number of direct-care registered nurses. Addi- to get involved. Failure was not an option all of you who supported them in their strike thanks for supporting us. tional direct-care registered nurses shall be she told us. to win safe staffing and limits on mandatory Stay involved in the legislative process. For added and the ratio adjusted to ensure direct- As we prepared for Lobby Day 2002, overtime. Once again you showed the depth every small step taken by each of you, we care registered nurse staffing in accordance with President Karen Higgins reiterated that call. of commitment nurses have to protecting come closer to victory. With your continued an approved acuity-based patient classification California had won safe staffing legislation their patients. commitment, we will win this fight once and system. n and had passed the torch to Massachusetts. Thanks to the nurses of Hale/Merrimack for all. n Safe staffing legislative sponsors House of Representatives John Fresolo, D-Worcester Thomas J. O’Brien, D-Kingston Joseph Wagner, D-Chicopee Cory Atkins, D-Concord William C. Galvin, D-Canton Marie Parente, D-Milford Martin Walsh, D-Boston Demetrius Atsalis, D-Barnstable Colleen M. Garry, D-Dracut Anne Paulsen, D-Belmont Steven Walsh, D-Lynn Save the Date Ruth Balser, D-Newton Anne Gobi, D-Spencer Vincent Pedone, D-Worcester Alice Wolf, D-Cambridge John J. Binienda, D-Worcester Emile Goguen, D-Fitchburg Douglas W. Petersen, D-Marble- Senate Lobby Day 2003 Deborah D. Blumer, D-Framing- Shirley Gomes, R-Harwich head Robert A. Antonioni, D-Leomin- ham Mary Grant, D-Beverly Susan W. Pope, R-Wayland ster Tuesday, May 6 Garrett Bradley, D-Hingham Lida E. Harkins, D-Needham Kathi-Anne Reinstein, D-Revere Stephen Baddour, D-Methuen Jennifer Callahan, D-Sutton Frank M. Hynes, D-Marshfield Michael Rodrigues, D-Westport Stephen Brewer, D-Barre Christine E. Canavan, D-Brockton Louis Kafka, D-Sharon Michael Ruane, D-Salem Harriette Chandler, D-Worcester 9 am - noon Gale Candaras, D-Wilbraham Jay Kaufman, D-Lexington Michael Rush, D-Boston Cynthia Creem, D-Newton Mark Carron, D-Southbridge Rachel Kaprielian, D-Watertown Byron Rushing, D-Boston Susan Fargo, D-Lincoln Great Hall, Edward G. Connolly, D-Everett Thomas P. Kennedy, D-Brockton Mary Jane Simmons, D-Leomin- Guy Glodis, D-Worcester Statehouse Michael A. Costello, D-Newbury- Brian Knuuttila, D-Gardner ster John A. Hart, D-Boston port Peter Kocut, D-Northampton Frank Smizik, D-Brookline Robert Hedlund, R-Weymouth Robert Coughlin, D-Dedham Robert M. Koczera, D-New Robert Spellane, D-Worcester Cheryl Jacques, D-Needham In conjunction with Geraldine M. Creedon, D- Bedford Joyce Spiliotis, D-Peabody Brian A. Joyce, D-Milton Brockton Peter Koutoujian, D-Newton Karen Spilka, D-Ashland Michael R. Knapik, R-Westfield National Nurses Week Robert DeLeo, D-Winthrop Paul Kujawski, D-Webster Thomas Stanley, D-Waltham Marc Pacheco, D-Taunton Paul Demakis, D-Boston James B. Leary, D-Worcester Ellen Story, D-Amherst Charles E. Shannon, D-Win- Paul Donato, D-Medford David P. Linsky, D-Natick Benjamin Swan, D-Springfield chester Carol Donovan, D-Woburn Barbara L’Italien, D-Andover Kathleen Teahan, D-Whitman JoAnne Sprague, R-Walpole Sponsored by Congress on Jamie Eldridge, D-Acton Paul Loscocco, R-Holliston Walter Timilty, D-Milton Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester Mark V. Falzone, D-Saugus Elizabeth Malia, D-Boston Timothy Toomey, D-Cambridge Richard R. Tisei, R-Wakefield Health Policy & Legislation Michael E. Festa, D-Melrose Ronald Mariano, D-Quincy Philip Travis, D-Rehoboth Steven Tolman, D-Boston Barry R. Finegold, D-Andover Jim Marzilli, D-Arlington James Vallee, D-Franklin Marian Walsh, D-Boston David Flynn, D-Bridgewater Robert Nyman, D-Hanover Anthony Verga, D-Gloucester Dianne Wilkerson, D-Boston n Page 8 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 9

…Agenda Consent to Serve for the From Page 5 Massachusetts Nurses Association 2003 Elections who work in the delivery of health care. It would also address the risk of violence and I am interested in active participation in the Massachusetts Nurses Association the appropriate retirement compensation for those professionals who care for these popu- lations in public sector settings. Lead sponsor: MNA General Election Sen. Guy Glodis.  President, General* (1 for 2 years)  Nominations Committee, (5 for 2 years) [1 per district] An Act Relative to Assault and Battery  Secretary, General* (1 for 2 years) q Bylaws Committee (5 for 2 years) [1 per district] on Health Care Providers. The bill would  District Director, Labor* (5 for two years) [1 per district] q Congress on Nursing Practice (6 for 2 years) make it a felony to assault any health care  Director At-Large, General* (3 for 2 years) q Congress on Health Policy & Legislation (6 for 2 years) worker while such person is treating or trans-  Director At-Large, Labor* (4 for 2 years) q Congress on Health & Safety (6 for 2 years) porting another. The crime shall be punished  by imprisonment in the house of correction Labor Program Member* (1 for 2 years) q Center for Nursing Ethics & Human Rights (2 for 2 years) for not more than two and one-half years or by *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 imprisonment in the state prison for not more 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 than five years, or by a fine of not more then labor program. $5,000, or by both such fine and imprison- Please type or print — Do not abbreviate ment. Lead sponsor: Rep. Michael Rodriques. An Act Relative to Group 4 for Health Name & credentials ______(as you wish them to appear in candidate biography) Care Professionals. This legislation would place those state employed health care profes- Work Title ______Employer ______sionals who work with violent or potentially violent populations in Group 4 for the pur- pose s of their retirement. Group 4 recognizes MNA Membership Number______MNA District______state employees who work in dangerous situ- ations. Lead sponsor Sen. Brian Joyce. An Act Relative to Group 2 Employees. Address ______Elevates registered nurses and other health care professionals that are state employees Cfty______State ______Zip ______to a “professional status” for the purposes of their retirement. They are currently consid- ered “technical status” in the state system. Home Phone ______Work Phone ______Lead sponsor: Rep. Edward Connolly. An Act Related to Interest Arbitration Educational Preparation for Health Care Professionals. Provides for the use of binding interest arbitration in School Degree Year the case of a collective bargaining impasse with the state. The purpose is to expedite the process, ensuring a fair and objective settle- ment to contract negotiations. Lead sponsor: Sen. Thomas McGee. An Act to Include Certain Municipal Employees of the Commonwealth in Present Offices/Association Activities (Congress, Committee, Unit, etc.) Group 2 of the Contributory Retirement MNA District System for Public Employees. Elevates nurses in municipal employment from a technical position to a professional position for the purposes of retirement. Lead sponsor: Rep. Timothy Toomey. An Act Regarding Insurance Equity for Registered Nurse First Assistants. Filed with the Association of Operating Room Nurses, Massachusetts Chapter One, this Past Offices/Association Activities (Congress, Committee, Unit, etc.)Past 5 years only. bill creates equity for RN first assistants MNA District with other paid providers of first assistant services. It prevents insurance companies from discriminating and refusing payment for first assistant services when they are provided by a registered nurse. Lead sponsor: Sen. Charles Shannon. Candidates may submit a typed statement not to exceed 250 words for president and vice president and 150 words for all other An Act Authorizing the Sale of “RN” candidates. Briefly state your personal views on health care, nursing and current issues including, if elected, what your major Distinctive Registration Plates. This would contribution(s) would be to the MNA and in particular to the position which you seek. This statement will be used in the candidate create an RN vanity license plate with funding biography which will be printed in the Mass Nurse. Statements, if used, must be submitted with this consent to serve form. directed to provide scholarships for nursing with an emphasis on attracting a diverse pop- ulation to enter and advance in the profession. Lead sponsor: Rep. Brian Knuuttila. Signature of Member Signature of Nominator (leave blank if self-nomination) An Act Relative to Creating a “Difficult to Manage Unit” Within the Department of Postmarked Deadline: Preliminary Ballot: March 15, 2003 Return To: Nominations and Elections Committee Mental Health. This legislation creates a Dif- Final Ballot: June 15, 2003 Massachusetts Nurses Association ficult to Manage Unit for women within the 340 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA 02021 Department of Mental Health. The Depart- ment currently has such a unit for men. Lead sponsor: Rep. Patricia Haddad. • Hand delivery of material must be to the MNA staff person for Nominations and Elections Committee only. Latex Gloves. The MNA is working with • Expect a letter of acknowledgment (call by July 30 if none is received) Rep. Vincent Pedone on legislation relative • Retain a copy of this form for your records. to latex gloves. n • Form also available on MNA Web site: www.massnurses.org Page 10 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 11

MNA union news A survey of recent contract settlements by MNA local bargaining units

The power of collective bargaining As a result of this settlement, a full-time the hospital work environment and recruitment and retention. Nurses on steps and unionized nurses has been clearly nurse at the top of the salary scale will be willingness to control them, e.g., with 1-15 received a 4 percent increase on Oct. 6, demonstrated in recent months, as MNA making an annual salary in excess of $100,000 the use of lifting devices; 2002 and April 1, 2003, while nurses at step bargaining units have successfully negoti- per year, making the B&W nurses the highest • a nurse on the hospital’s value analy- 16 received 8 percent on Oct. 6, 2002. Nurses ated impressive contract settlements across paid nurses in the commonwealth. sis committee which will show “end with 15 years of longevity will also receive a the commonwealth. Below is summary of Other highlights of the agreement include user” evaluation of new products, bonus on April 1 of $500 - $1,000 depending recent settlements reached and ratified by increases in the rotator evening and night and an annual “back safety” pro- on hours worked between March 31, 2002 and the MNA in the last three months of 2002. If differentials, permanent evening and night gram; April 1, 2003. There was also an increase in you are a nurse working in a non-unionized differentials, weekend differentials and call • and an ergonomic assessment of tuition reimbursement and the introduction health care facility/agency and wish to learn pay. Also negotiated were an improved vaca- all new construction/renovations of a tuition loan forgiveness plan. A “weekend more about the benefits of collective bargain- tion and holiday cash-out benefit, enhanced presented to the hospital’s safety incentive plan” or Baylor program was nego- ing and how to organize a union at your own professional development benefits, the freez- committee for action. tiated paying 36 for 24 to begin in January health care facility, contact Eileen Norton in ing of off-site parking rates for the term of the Two levels of per diem nurses were estab- 2003. The settlement hiked the wages of the the MNA organizing department at 781-830- contract and the option for nurses who have lished based on shifts worked and minimum most senior nurses to 38.05/hour. 5777; [email protected] been in variable-hour positions to convert to number of hours worked per month. non-variable positions after three years. Cape Cod, Falmouth Hospital nurses Memorial nurses ratify first contract The nurses fought hard in the negotiating Carney nurses stand strong for a fair become tops on South Shore granting 40 percent raises process to become the first MNA private contract Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital The 800 registered nurses represented by sector bargaining unit to negotiate retiree In a public struggle for respect, the nurses of are now the state's highest-paid nurses south the Massachusetts Nurses Association at health benefits. While they failed to achieve Carney Hospital used informational picketing of Boston after the respective memberships UMass/Memorial Health Care who work at this benefit in this round of talks, the nurses and a widely publicized candlelight vigil to of these two MNA bargaining units ratified the Memorial Hospital Campus, Hahnemann are committed to achieving this important convince hospital management to grant them a contract giving them raises of as much as Campus, and the Home Health and Hospice benefit in the next contract cycle. pay raises to make the Carney competitive 34 percent over the next 21⁄2 years. Campus ratified their first union contract in with other facilities in the area. While nurses originally wanted an over- December, with more than 98 percent voting Anna Jaques nurses win ground- On Nov. 21 the Carney nurses ratified all 28 percent increase over two years, they in favor of a three-year contract that will give breaking patient safety language a new 3-year agreement which grants the agreed to add an additional six months to the them raises averaging 40 percent. On Nov. 25, the Anna Jaques Hospital nurses salary increase ranging between 15 deal, granting raises from 28 to 34 percent The nurses voted for their union on June 21, nurses of Newburyport ratified a new three- -- 21 percent depending on years of service. depending on experience, years of employ- 2001, with talks opening in November of 2001. year agreement which grants nurses salary The increase provides across of the board pay ment and educational degree. After more than 25 negotiating sessions, an increases ranging between 20 – 24 percent increases of 5-10 percent in the first year, 5 The bargaining unit's key goal was to make agreement was reached. Under the contract, depending on years of service. The agree- percent in the second and 5-6 percent in the nurses' wages competitive with the Boston full-time nurses at the top of the pay scale will ment provides across-the-board increases third year, while maintaining the present 5 market. With a nursing shortage of about 70 see their annual salaries climb from $62,900 of 8 percent in the first year, 4 percent in the percent annual step raises. The contract also positions at Cape Cod Hospital, the nurses felt currently to $89,500 by 2004. The home health second year and 4 percent in the third year. It provides for a new 3 percent step at the top of strongly that they needed to stop the exodus and hospice nurses are paid at a lower scale, also compresses the scale by eliminating Step the pay scale. Other highlights of the agree- of nurses to better-paying jobs. but will also receive raises averaging 40 per- 1 the first year, with the nurses continuing ment include a substantial increase in tuition Under the new conract, starting pay will cent or better. to advance on the scale on their anniversary reimbursement benefits, a new tuition loan be raised from $19.90 per hour to $23.38. Top- On an hourly basis, nurses on the top step date, and adds a 2 percent step the second forgiveness program for new hires, enhance- level registered nurses will see their pay go will see their wages climb from $30.28 per year and a 2 percent step the third year. ment of the RIF language, and new health and from $29.03 per hour currently to $39 in the hour to $43.03 per hour by December 2004. Increases in shift differentials, the weekend safety language. third year of the contract. The increases will come in a series of six raises differential and on-call differential were also Another attractive aspect of the three-year over the three years of the contract, which a part of the agreement. Mandatory overtime Faulkner nurses win one-year raise agreement is the hospital's pledge to maintain is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2002. More than half language was included in this contract for to aid recruitment and retention the current health insurance benefit. Full-time of the nurses in the unit are paid at that top the first time. It limits mandatory overtime On Oct. 8 the Faulkner Hospital nurses nurses at the hospital after one year get free step. to eight hours per calendar quarter with ratified a one-year wage/economic re- individual health insurance and after 10 years The contract agreement also limits man- no more than four hours in any mandatory opener. The nurse’s focus of the re-opener was get free family health care coverage. n datory overtime to eight times per year, and overtime assignment. The nurse is also able limits nurses to 12 hours of work per day. to refuse this assignment if he/she believes Nurses may refuse an overtime shift if they that he/she cannot safely accept it. A limit on Attention MNA members feel too ill or fatigued to work. The contract rotation to off shifts and rotation relative to also provides limits on floating the senior- weekends off is included. The contract out- Board of Registration in Nursing ity rights to bump into another position if lines the role of preceptor, and allows for a laid-off; two additional floating holidays for differential of $1.50/hour for nurses accepting Opportunities a total of 12 holidays; increases in many dif- the role of preceptor. Tuition reimbursement ferentials; and the right to grieve and possibly was increased and travel allowance increased The following positions are either vacant or expired on the Board of arbitrate discipline by managers that are not to the IRS rate. Registration in Nursing: based upon just cause. Health and safety language was negoti- • RN (1 position) direct care ated. Included in this groundbreaking Brigham & Women’s Hospital RNs • Advanced Practice (2 APRN’s ) must meet requirements for advanced section are: practice as established by the Board, at least one appointee is employed salary tops 100k per year • increasing the number of nurses On Nov. 25, the nurses at Brigham & on the hospital safety committee to providing direct patient care at the time of appointment Women’s Hospital ratified a new two-year three and adding employee safety as • Nurse Administrator (1 position) currently employed as a nursing service agreement (reached on Oct. 31) which grants a standing agenda item to all safety administrator and who is responsible in that role for agency or service nurses salary increases ranging from 17-22 committee meetings; wide policy development and implementation percent, depending on their years of service. • maintaining a prevention program Commitment: The settlement provided an across-the-board and providing training in compliance •Full day every three weeks. Other meetings as needed. increase of 6 percent in the first year and 6 with OSHA’s bloodborne standard percent in the second year, while also provid- and compliance directive, and having Criteria for appointment: ing 5-10 percent in anniversary step increases two nurses on the hospital’s infection • Eight years of practice in nursing practice in the ten years immediately over the 2 years. In addition to adding a new 5 control committee; preceding the appointment percent top step, the settlement also provides • the hospital’s adoption of a “zero tol- • Currently employed in the commonwealth at the time of appointment for the elimination of all tenure requirements erance” environment on workplace effective April 2004, meaning that all nurses violence; For further information contact Dorothy McCabe, 781-830-5714 or will receive an annual anniversary increase • the hospital’s recognition of the [email protected]. until they reach the top of the scale. existence of ergonomic stressors in Page 10 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 11

MNA Member Benefits Save You Money

MNA’s premier group benefits programs from affordable insurance to convenient credit DIGITAL PAGERS help you get more out of your membership & your hard-earned money! Take advantage of INTERNET PAGING...... (800) 977-1997 these special benefits specifically designed for MNA members. Savings are just a telephone Discount digital pager program. call away. LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE SERVICE Personal & Financial Services ALLIANCE SERVICES ...... (888) 922-SAVE 4.9 cents/minute for long distance calls & 5% discount (vs. Verizon) on local service – 7 PORTABLE HEALTH INSURANCE days a week, 24 hours a day! Prepaid discount international calling cards also available. LLEN APLAN ROUP EALTH PECIALISTS OR E K , G H S ...... (800) 604-3303 (508) 875-3288 CELLULAR TELEPHONE SERVICE Managed care & comprehensive indemnity plans through Blue Cross/Blue Shield as well CINGULAR WIRELESS...... (800) 894-5500 as other carriers. Lowest rate possible $8.95/month plus $.37/minute off peak with free nights (7:00 PM to PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE 6:59 AM – an MNA exclusive) & free weekends. URSES ERVICE RGANIZATION TO N S O ...... (800) 247-1500 (8:00 AM 6:00 PM) JIFFY LUBE DISCOUNT Leading provider of professional liability insurance for nursing professionals with over MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ...... (800) 882-2056, X726 650,000 health care professionals insured. Obtain an MNA Discount card to receive 15% discount on automobile products & CREDIT CARD PROGRAM services. MERICA MBNA A ...... (800) 847-7378 CONSUMER REFERRAL SERVICE Exceptional credit card at a competitive rate includes $300,000 worth of HIV insurance MASS BUYING POWER...... (781) 829-4900 protection. A consumer referral service offering super savings on products & services. Visit TERM LIFE INSURANCE their web site at www.massbuy.com (Password MBP) LEAD BROKERAGE GROUP ...... (800) 842-0804 DISCOUNT ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES Term life insurance offered at special cost discounts. HOME ENTERTAINMENT DISTRIBUTORS...... (800) 232-0872 OR (781) 828-4555 LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE Home electronics & appliances available at discount prices for MNA members. WILLIAM CLIFFORD ...... 800-878-9921, EXT. 110 OIL NETWORK DISCOUNT Flexible and comprehensive long-term care insurance at discount rates. COMFORT CRAFTED OIL BUYING NETWORK ...... (800) 649-7473 SHORT TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE Lower your home heating oil costs by 10 – 15%. LESTER L. BURDICK, INC ...... (800) 959-9955 OR (978) 683-3400 DISCOUNT TAX PREPARATION SERVICE Six-month disability protection program for non-occupational illnesses & accidents. TAXMAN INC...... (800) 7TAXMAN LONG TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE 20% discount on tax preparation services. LEAD BROKERAGE GROUP ...... (800) 842-0804 Provides income when you are unable to work due to an illness or injury. Travel & Leisure HERTZ CAR RENTAL DISCOUNT RETIREMENT PROGRAM HERTZ ...... (800) 654-2200 AMERICAN GENERAL FINANCIAL GROUP/VALIC...... (800) 448-2542 Specializing in providing retirement programs including 403(b), 401(k), IRA, NQDA, MNA members discounts range from 5 – 20% mention MNA discount CDP#1281147. Mutual Funds, etc. DISCOUNT MOVIE PASSES MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ...... (800) 882-2056, X726 Products & Services Purchase discount movie passes for Showcase/National Amusements, Hoyts & AMC Theaters. Call to order over the telephone with Mastercard or Visa. UTO OMEOWNERS NSURANCE A /H I DISCOUNT HOTEL & TRAVEL PRIVILEGES ANSFIELD M CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL (SOS PROGRAM)...... (800) 258-2847 COLONIAL INSURANCE SERVICES ...... (800) 571-7773 OR (508) 339-3047 20% discount on participating Comfort, Quality, Clarion, Sleep, Econo Lodge, Rodeway WEST SPRINGFIELD & MainStay Suites, Inns & Hotels. Advanced reservations required mention SOS BATES FULLAM INSURANCE AGENCY ...... (413) 737-3539 Program #00801502. Membership in Guest Privileges Frequent Traveler Program. BOSTON DISCOUNT TRAVEL PROGRAM TO FLORIDA, BAHAMAS & LAS VEGAS ROBERT S. CLARK INSURANCE AGENCY...... (800) 660-0168 EXECUTIVE TOUR & TRAVEL SERVICE...... (800) 272-4707 (RESERVATIONS) LOWELL (877) 406-4836 (ATTRACTION TICKETS) JAMES L. CONNEY INSURANCE AGENCY ...... (978) 459-0505 4 day/3 night discount on “Getaway Vacations” to Florida, Bahamas & Las Vegas. Visit WOBURN web site at www.exectourtravel.com. Mention MNA group number 15187. LENNON INSURANCE AGENCY...... (781) 937-0050 FALMOUTH & POCASSET UNIVERSAL STUDIOS THEME PARK FAN CLUB MURRAY & MACDONALD INSURANCE SERVICES...... (800) 800-8990 MNA MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT ...... (800) 882-2056, X726 TURNERS FALLS Fan Club membership entitles you to discounts at Universal Studios Theme Parks, PARTRIDGE ZCHAU INSURANCE AGENCY...... (413) 863-4331 discounts on merchandise and on-site hotels Save up to 18% for all household members. For a no obligation quote visit www.nursesinsurance.com Your participation in these programs increases the Association’s purchasing power DISCOUNT DENTAL & EYEWEAR PROGRAM allowing the MNA to add and improve benefit programs offered. For information KENNETH FRANSSON OR DAVE FRASER ...... (800) 697-4371 regarding any of our discount programs, please contact the specific representative 45% to 50% on dental services when utilizing network dentists. 10% to 60% discount listed. or call Chris Stetkiewicz in the MNA membership department, (800) 882- on eyewear through nationwide vision providers. Only $7.95/month individual or $8.95 2056, x726. family for MNA members.

For more information, call the Massachusetts Nurses Association at 1-800-882-2056, x726. Page 12 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 13

Notes from the Congress on Health and Safety Health Care Without Harm: nurses play key role

By Peggy Wolff, M.S., A.P.R.N. 7) implementing fragrance-free policies advocating for state and national polices; “like-minded” people at work to Health Care Without Harm (HCWH), in the health care system. and, activating nurses internationally about create change. which began in 1996, is an international cam- Many nurses throughout the country environmental health concerns. • Recycle. paign of more than 390 hospitals, health care actively participate in the HCWH Nurses’ What can you as a nurse do? • Use red bags only for their intended facilities and environmental organizations. It Workgroup co-led by ANA’s Susan Wilburn, • Ask if your health care facility/ purpose. was created to provide a remedy for the pol- MPH, RN, senior specialist in occupational organization (particularly nursing • Choose reusable products at work lution from health care practices. safety and health and Barbara Sattler, RN, specialty organizations) is a member and in the home. Issues that HCWH focuses on include DrPH, University of Maryland School of of HCWH. If it is not a member, get • Buy recycled paper that is 100 percent 1) reducing the incineration of health Nursing. your facility/organization to join by post-consumer waste and chlorine care waste globally and promoting In Massachusetts, members of the HCWH contacting Jolie Patterson at 202- free. safer alternatives; nurses’ workgroup include Evelyn Bain, 234-0091 or [email protected]. • Be fragrance-free yourself and 2) developing and implementing a MEd, RN, COHN-S, an associate director It’s free to join. encourage others to discontinue the program aimed at using JACHO to and the occupational safety and health • Participate in the nurses’ workgroup use of personal fragrances. promote environmentally sustainable specialist at MNA; Janice Homer, RN, and conference calls held the second Tues- Peggy Wolff, RN, APRN, lives in Leverett, health care; Gail Lenehan RN, EdD, members of MNA’s day of each month at 3 p.m. Mass., and is an environmental health consultant. 3) replacing pesticides with an integrated Congress on Health and Safety; and Peggy • Educate yourself about environ- She has written extensively on issues of environ- pest management system; Wolff, RN, APRN, an environmental health mental health concerns by visiting mental exposures to nurses and other workers. 4) phasing out PVC plastic; consultant. www.hcwh.org and www.nihe.org. Peggy was instrumental in bringing MNA and 5) reducing patients’ exposure to DEHP- Current issues of the nurses’ workgroup • Inquire about incineration, mercury, Western MassCOSH together in 1999 to develop containing products; include motivating and educating nurses to PVC, phthalate, pesticide and fra- the grant proposal “Wheezing at Work: Work 6) reducing health care’s use of mercury; be change agents for environmental sustain- grance use at work. Choose one area Related Asthma” which was funded by the Mas- and, ability in health care; engaging nurses in of concern and team up with other sachusetts Dept. of Industrial Accidents. n Applying OSHA to healthcare settings Labor Relations Leadership Workshops By Evelyn I. Bain, M Ed, RN, COHN-S with Evie and B. Elaine, to take the program Associate Director, Occupational Safety and across the state, holding one training session All programs are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Health Specialist in each MNA District and one training session Workshop 1: Groundwork For Success Twelve MNA members and others attended for Unit 7 members. Learn how: a daylong train-the-trainer program to help Members may attend any session that • Your bargaining unit can work to accomplish your goal improve the health and safety of MNA is convenient for them. There is no fee to • The MNA supports you in your union activities members participate. • To use the labor/management and grievance processes to address everyday work Provided by a grant from the Massachu- The following is a list of dates and locations issues and problems setts Department of Industrial Accidents, for the training sessions: Dates and locations: the program was held in November at MNA February 12, District 4, King’s Grant, • Wednesday, Jan. 22, MNA District 1 office headquarters. Participants learned that OSHA Danvers • Thursday, Feb. 13, MNA District 2 office standards and the protections that they pro- March 12, District 3, site TBA • Wednesday, March 5, MNA headquarters vide for the health and safety of workers April 9, Unit 7, following State Council Workshop 2: Finetuning Your Bargaining Unit in “general industry,” also apply to protect meeting at Indian Meadows, Marlboro Learn how the MNA and your local bargaining unit can: workers, including nurses, in healthcare May 14, District 2, site TBA • Help you to achieve a safe work environment settings. June 18, District 1, District 1 Office, • Push for legislation and regulations that insure safe practice MNA staff members Evie Bain and B. Elaine Northampton. • Get your message out to whoever needs to hear it Mauger addressed the topics: All About For additional information: call Evie Bain • Participate in the Statewide Campaign for Safe Care OSHA, OSHA Standard 1910.1012 — Hazard 781-830-5776 or e-mail [email protected] or • Define the issue of “supervisors” and the union Communication, OSHA Guidelines for Pre- B. Elaine Mauger at 781-830-5754 or email Dates and locations: venting Violence in Health Care and Social [email protected]. To register contact • Wednesday, Feb. 5, MNA District 1 office Service Settings and methods to move health Susan Clish, 800-882-2056 x 723. • Thursday, Feb. 27, MNA District 2 office and safety issues in the bargaining unit and Contact Hours: Contact hours will be • Tuesday, March 25, MNA headquarters with the employer. awarded by the Massachusetts Nurses Asso- Preregistration is required: Ddeadline is the Wednesday before each program. MNA trainers included: Catherine Dicker, ciation which is accredited as a provider of Register by calling Cindy Langlois at 800-882-2056, x720. Joanne Whynot-Butler, Rosemary Connors, Continuing Education by the American Fee: non-member (agency fee payors) $25 Patty Healey, Marcia Robertson, Janice Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission Contact Hours: Each of the above continuing education activities has been approved for 7.2 contact Homer, Kathleen Opanasets, Rosemary on Accreditation. To successfully complete hours by the Massachusetts Nurses Association which is accredited as an approver of continuing education O’Brien, Nancy Mucciaccio, Elizabeth a program and receive contact hours you in nursing by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. To successfully O’Connor, Nancy Adrian and Kathleen must: 1) sign in, 2) be present for the entire complete a program and receive contact hours you must: 1) sign in, 2) be present for the entire time period Sperrazza. time period of the session, and 3) complete of the session and 3) complete the evaluation. The goal of the grant is to train one or more the evaluation. Chemical Sensitivity: Scents may trigger responses in those with chemical sensitivities. Men and members from each MNA local bargaining Chemical Sensitivity: Scents may trigger women are requested to avoid wearing scented personal products when attending this meeting/program. unit as a “Worksite Health and Safety Rep- responses in those with chemical sensitivities. resentative.” The Worksite Health and Safety Men and women are asked to please avoid Representative training programs are planned wearing scented personal products when you from January to June of 2003. They are four attend this program. Benefits Corner brought to you by… hours long, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with lunch fol- Be sure to contact your MNA bargaining lowing. unit chair if you plan to participate in this The grant provides for the trainers, along program. n MNA members save 20% at Tax Man Members take 20 percent off the cost needed to file your tax return accurately, of professional tax preparation services so you’ll never pay more than what your New resource for improving indoor air quality provided by Tax Man Inc. at any of their unique tax situation calls for. Understanding the toxicity of environmen- at www.informinc.org/cleanforhealth.php. 23 offices statewide (call 800-7-TAXMAN Tax Man also offers 100 percent satisfac- tal cleaning chemicals and becoming aware of MNA Congress on Health and Safety or visit their website www.taxman.com tion guarantee on all tax services. To receive safer alternatives can be a major step toward member, Janice Homer RN, was a reviewer for a complete list of office locations and your 20 percent discount, present a valid improving indoor air quality. A new reference, of the publication. Lara Sutherland, formerly telephone numbers). MNA membership card at the time of ser- Cleaning for Health, Products and Practices for of the Massachusetts Office of Technical Assis- Tax preparation fees are based on the vice and enjoy stress-free tax preparation a Safer Indoor Environment, published by tance and a valuable resource on many MNA complexity of your tax return and the forms this year! n INFORM, Inc. is available free as a download projects, was a contributor on the project. n Page 12 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 13 Anna Jaques nurses win extensive health and safety contract language

By Evelyn I. Bain, M Ed, RN, COHN-S borne standard and compliance change policies or practices as Associate Director, Occupational Safety and directive. The hospital agrees to have needed. Further, the hospital Health Specialist at least two representatives from the recognizes and supports the Congratulations to the MNA nurses at collective bargaining unit sit on the individual nurse’s right to Anna Jaques Hospital for ratifying a con- infection control committee. One notify the police if he/she has tract that included extensive health and of these representatives will be the been assaulted as well as the safety language. The negotiating committee employee health nurse. The hospital hospital’s obligation to work included Jeanine Cunningham, Bargaining will make every endeavor to release collaboratively with outside Unit Chairperson, Janise Cashman, Sue the nurses to attend these meetings. agencies as appropriate. Keslof, Cindy Hopping, Joanne Blynn, Kay C. Workplace Violence: Workplace vio- D. Ergonomic/musculoskeletal Marshall, Lucy McMilleon and Pat Coffey. lence is defined as physical assault, injuries: Anna Jaques Hospital MNA nurses will now be represented on the threatening behavior or verbal abuse recognizes ergonomic stress- hospital safety committee, the infection con- occurring in the work setting (NIOSH). ors as “physical demands trol committee, and won language to address The hospital recognizes the potential that have been associated with issues related to prevention of workplace for workplace violence and recognizes certain musculoskeletal disor- violence and measures to reduce musculo- its responsibility to provide a safe ders” (OSHA). The hospital is skeletal injuries. MNA Associate Director B. environment for employees, patients, committed to recognizing the Elaine Mauger negotiated the contract for the medical staff and visitors. To meet this ergonomic stressors that exist MNA nurses. responsibility the hospital has estab- in the hospital work environ- Anna Jaques Hospital nurses picket to win landmark lished and implemented a number of ment and to implementing contract. Health and safety contract language initiatives including, but not limited practical measures to control patients. Requests may be made A. Hospital safety committee: The hospi- to, a mechanism to address nursing such stressors. To that end, the hospital in writing to the Vice President tal agrees to have three representatives involvement in policy development agrees to the following strategies as a of Patient Care. All requests will from the collective bargaining unit sit of security measures (safety commit- minimum: be responded to in writing. on the hospital Safety Committee. One tee), staff education in the recognition, 1. Lifting devices shall be readily 2. The hospital will run “back of the three representatives from the avoidance and diffusion of potentially available. At least one represen- safety” education programs collective bargaining unit will be the violent situations, professional debrief- tative from the bargaining unit at least once a year which will employee health nurse, the other two ing of hospital personnel exposed to will sit on the hospital’s value provide participants the oppor- representatives will be selected by the in-hospital violence with options for analysis committee (VAC). tunity to learn about practices MNA. The hospital will make every further counseling, the use of trained In addition, the VAC will be and equipment, including endeavor to release nurses to attend security personnel and structural/ required to show evidence of patient handling equipment the meetings. Further, the hospital environmental deterrents and barriers “end user” evaluation of new that is effective in preventing agrees that employee safety will be against acts of violence. Recognizing products purchased for the pur- musculoskeletal injuries. a standing agenda item at all safety that strategies to maintain a “zero pose of assisting in the lifting, 3. In all new construction/ committee meetings. tolerance” environment implies moving or transfer of patients renovations, an ergonomic B. Infections control committee: The continual change, the hospital safety prior to purchase. All nurses may assessment will be conducted. hospital agrees to maintain a preven- committee carries the authority to make requests for the purchase of This will be presented to the tion program and provide training ensure implementation of safety poli- additional or different devices for hospital’s safety committee for that complies with OSHA’s blood- cies, evaluate their effectiveness and lifting/moving/transferring of action. n

Backs to the Future

Backs to the Future Planning Committee and speakers left to right: Leslie Lomasson, Western MassCOSH; Terri Arthur, MNA Congress on Health & Safety interim chairperson; Jamie Tessler, UMass Lowell researcher; Audrey Nelson, Patient Safety Center of Inquiry, Tampa Florida; Evie Bain, MNA Staff; Tolle Graham, MassCOSH. Photos courtesey of Terri Arthur, MNA member.

Beth Piknick, RN, MNA board member is pleased with the ease of patient handling and movement with the state of the art equipment displayed at the Dec. 4 Backs to the Future Conference. Beth was also a speaker at the program. Page 14 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 15

Nurses will play major role State announces voluntary smallpox vaccination plan Nurses will comprise the lions share of the vaccine and the process of immunizing follow-up program for all hospitals in the will be trained and vaccinated to build capac- more than 12,000 health care workers sched- health care workers. system. There are approximately 16 systems ity for future smallpox vaccination activities. uled to be vaccinated in January and Febuary Specific ssues raised by the MNA related covering most of the hospitals, with the These vaccinated and trained nurses will as part of the Commonwealth’s pre-event to this process include: concerns about who remaining hospitals being unaffiliated. Small form the core of a cadre of trained health plan to protect the state’s residents against would pay for lost work time for employees unaffiliated hospitals will be encouraged to care providers who will be ready to imple- potential bioterrorism event. Initial plans call who become ill from the vaccine, as well as develop agreements with larger hospitals ment mass smallpox vaccination clinics in the for the immunization of 7.500 – 8,000 hospital for family members of workers who may to vaccinate their staff, or may have their event of a bioterrorism attack. These nurses personnel, 1,000 health care workers to serve become ill; and liability issues related to employees vaccinated at the vendor-run will be recruited with the assistance of the on regional community response teams and reactions to the vaccine for employees and clinics. Statewide BT Preparedness and Response an additional 3,000 public health nurses the general public who may be exposed to In addition, 7 response teams, correspond- Program Advisory Committee, the MNA, the (including school nurses, visiting nurses and an immunized employee. The MNA also ing to the 7 bioterrorism preparedness regions MDPH Office for School Health, The Mass. EMS personnel) who would be responsible for raised issues about the timeline for educat- being designated by DPH, and a select group Association of School Nurses and the Mass. immunizing the general public in the event ing workers about the process and the need of public health and health care workers Association of Public Health Nurses. of a smallpox outbreak. Related stories about for immediate and comprehensive education across the state will also be vaccinated. the smallpox vaccine, potential side effects, around smallpox in general. Questions were Timeline for selection and other helpful information can be found also raised about the safety of the needles to Regional smallpox response teams Once legal issues have been resolved below and on Pages 15 and 16. used to vaccinate employees. Again, as these In addition to hospital teams, DPH proposes regarding the plan, best estimates are that The plan, was drafted by the Mass. Depart- issues are resolved and responded to, check to establish 16-person multi-disciplinary recruitment of volunteers for the vaccinations ment of Public Health, with guidance from the the MNA web site for further details. community response teams comprised of would begin in January. The Mass. Hospital Smallpox Working Group of the Statewide first responders, medical and public safety Association and the DPH will stagger the Bioterrorism Task Force and Response Pro- Hospital-based response teams personnel to be able to respond to smallpox vaccination process over a period of 10 – 12 gram Advisory Committee, which includes All 76 acute care hospitals with emer- cases within one to two hours of a suspected weeks to minimize the impact on staffing in more than 60 agencies and organizations, with gency departments (EDs) in Massachusetts case. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts emergency departments across the state. representation by the MNA. The plan was have been designated as sites for caring for is divided into 7 regions for the purpose of submitted to and approved by the Centers potential smallpox cases and are included in bioterrorism preparedness, planning and Sites for vaccination for Desease Control in December as part of a this phase of the plan. Each hospital will be response. One Smallpox Response Team Phase 1 of pre-event smallpox vaccination national mandate to develop a comprehensive charged with recruiting approximately 100 will be established for each of the 7 regions. will take place in two types of clinics. The first smallpox preparedness plan. employees at each facility to be immunized The Teams will investigate any suspect case of type of clinic will be hospital-based, where The Pre-Event Vaccination Plan is the first at selected hospitals sites selected to handle smallpox in the community and mitigate the multidisciplinary teams of 100 employees phase of a three-phase plan to deal with a the vaccination process. hazard by closing off access to the area, iso- from the 76 hospitals will be vaccinated. smallpox event. While this article will sum- MDPH is in the process of soliciting com- lating contacts of the suspect case until they The second type of clinic will consist of 4 marize the pre-event plan, future issues of the ments and draft guidance that will provide can be interviewed, and safely transporting vendor-run regional clinics to be held at state Massachusetts Nurse will address subsequent to hospitals in identifying their health care the suspect case to the hospital. hospitals. Members of the 7 regional smallpox phases of the state’s effort to address the small- teams. The proposed guidelines for nurse Under the direction of a regional bioter- response teams, approximately 3,000 nurses, pox threat. Readers are encourage to visit the involvement in the teams is as follows: rorism coordinator, each of the 7 teams will paramedicas, public safety personnel will be MNA web site at www.massnurses.org for include a total of 150 personnel, who will be vaccinated at these sites. Health care worker posi- # of FTEs/ more extensive coverage of this issue as well available 24 hours/day. tion hospital Process for screening vaccines as links to web sites that may provide addi- The teams will provide the following func- At both hospital and vendor-run clinics, tional helpful information for nurses. ED nurse 50% of all tions: patient care and transport, specimen all potential candidates for vaccination will The MNA and other health care provider (avg. 20/hosp.) collection and transport, medical diagnosis, groups and unions have been actively site security, control of the environment, con- undergo a throrough screening process. engaged in this process and have been rais- ICU/Med-surg/pedi nurses 25 tact investigation and event management. To General information sessions will be open ing questions about this plan and the best way fully staff teams, a total of 1,050 individuals to all potential vaccination candidates to Occupational health nurse 1 to implement it to protect health care work- will be vaccinated and trained. explain the pre-event smallpox vaccination ers and the public. As of this writing, while Dialysis nurses 1 program. Potential candidates will receive an the DPH has submitted the plan and it was Public health nurse/vaccinators information packet prepared by the CDC that approved by the CDC, the specific timeline A health care systems approach is being In addition, 3,000 public health nurses, provides detailed information on the vaccine, for implementation was unclear. Attorneys encouraged whereby one hospital in each including municipal nurses, school nurses side effects, informed consent information, a for the state were charged with reviewing system will be responsible for implement- and visiting nurses, and emergency techni- self screening form and other materials to help a number of issues and questions related to ing a screening, education, vaccination and cians and paramedics from across the state nurses make an informed decision. n Facts about the smallpox vaccine Smallpox vaccine, which is made from young volunteers, about 40 percent to 50 break in the skin caused by a cut or a rash. that after being inoculated, 5 percent of those a live virus related to the one that causes percent had substantial local reactions, 30 vaccinated reported side effects like fevers, smallpox, is considered the most dangerous percent felt impaired in their daily activi- The Israeli experience headaches, muscle pain, fatigue and weak- immunization for humans. Before the United ties, and about 5 percent took time off from Israel has successfully vaccinated more ness. Medical literature suggests that one States stopped routine smallpox vaccina- work or studies. than 15,000 soldiers and public health in a million people is likely to die from the tions in 1972, life-threatening complications Dr. William Schaffner, chairman of preven- workers against smallpox on a voluntary smallpox vaccine, and one in roughly 250,000 occurred at a rate of 15 per million among tive medicine at Vanderbilt University, said basis since July with virtually no severe side is likely to suffer serious side effects. those who received their first smallpox vac- experts expect that health workers would effects, senior Israeli officials say. However, Israel uses the Lister vaccine cination, and the number included about one take more sick time than the research vol- “The United States has much to learn from strain, different from the strain used by the to two deaths. unteers. Israel’s experience,” Leonard J. Marcus, the United States. Dr. Lev said that Lister was Vulnerable people include pregnant To reduce the chance of transmission, the director of the health care negotiation and less virulent than the American strain and women, babies younger than a year old CDC guidelines call for the vaccination site conflict resolution program at the Harvard has fewer side effects. He said Israeli doctors and people with H.I.V. or other immune be covered with a gauze bandage and tape School of Public Health, concluded in a and health professionals had screened out disorders, some types of cancer, organ for two to three weeks, until the scab falls recent report on Israel’s medical response those with health conditions that precluded transplants or histories of skin problems like off. Vaccinated health care workers will to bioterrorist threats. safe inoculation, like pregnant women and eczema. No one who lives with a person at wear special semipermeable bandages at Though as many as 30 to 50 percent of people with ailments that suppress the high risk should be vaccinated, said Dr. Lisa work, because they are better than gauze at potential volunteers initially resisted being immune system. Rotz, an epidemiologist with the bioterror preventing transmission. vaccinated, experts said, volunteer rates rose There were only two problematic cases program at the Centers for Disease Control Researchers say very close contact is sharply after public health officials began in Israel so far — one a woman with an and Prevention. required to spread vaccinia, like touching the discussing the program’s risks and benefits, immune disorder. She was not vaccinated Vaccination can also cause problems like vaccination site or an article that has been in and after medical professionals began being but was infected by her husband, who was. soreness and swelling at the inoculation site. contact with it like clothing or a bandage. vaccinated. She responded quickly to treatment and In recent trials of the vaccine on healthy Infection occurs when the virus enters a Dr. Marcus concluded in an October report recovered fully, Dr. Lev said. n Page 14 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 15

MNA position on smallpox vaccine CDC FactSheets: The MNA has been actively involved in proper care for one or more days, and given Reactions to the smallpox vaccine the collaboration with the Massachusetts that those vaccinated are at risk for exposing The smallpox vaccine prevents smallpox. For most people, it is safe and effective. Most Department of Public Health (DPH) and another person up until the time the vac- people experience normal, typically mild reactions to the vaccine, which indicate that it is other agencies to plan and make prepara- cination scab dries and falls off (between 7 beginning to work. Some people may experience reactions that may require medical atten- tions for an act of bioterrorism involving and 14 days), we believe the safest and only tion. the smallpox virus. Clearly, registered prudent course of action is to provide paid nurses who function in all areas and venues furloughs to those who volunteer for the Normal, typically mild reactions of health care delivery, be it in the school vaccine. The MNA believes it is unreason- These reactions usually go away without treatment: system, public health departments, acute, able to expect any volunteer to suffer any • The arm receiving the vaccination may be sore and red where the vaccine was community, home and long term care set- loss of pay or accrued benefit time as a result given. tings, will and must play an integral role in of participating in this voluntary program. • The glands in the armpits may become large and sore. the provision of effective health service in the Without furloughing provisions, and given • The vaccinated person may run a low fever. event of a bioterrorist attack. Consistent with the current malpractice liability for nurses • One out of 3 people may feel bad enough to miss work, school, or recreational activ- this, nurses represent the majority of those who participate (see item on malpractice ity or have trouble sleeping. health care workers slated to be vaccinated below) taking such an unnecessary risk is as part of the plan proposed by the DPH. unacceptable. Serious reactions As to the plan that has been developed, Liability: There are a number of com- In the past, about 1,000 people for every 1 million people vaccinated for the first time we recognize the great efforts that have gone ponents here. 1) There is no malpractice experienced reactions that, while not life-threatening, were serious. These reactions may into its creation and we strongly support the protection for vaccinated nurses in the event require medical attention: decision to make participation by health care a patient is exposed. In fact, we have que- • A vaccinia rash or outbreak of sores limited to one area. This is an accidental spread- workers in the vaccination plan completely ried our malpractice insurer and they made ing of the vaccinia virus caused by touching the vaccination site and then touching voluntary. However, there are a number of it clear that they will not cover such a claim another part of the body or another person. It usually occurs on the genitals or areas of this plan that have and continue to nor will they underwrite a rider to cover this face, including the eyes, where it can damage sight or lead to blindness. Washing raise concerns within the MNA, among our on their policy – in large part because the hands with soap and water after touching the vaccine site will help prevent this members and in the broader nursing com- plan does not mandate the furloughing of (inadvertent inoculation). munity. In light of the fact that the state is those vaccinated. 2) There is no malpractice • A widespread vaccinia rash. The virus spreads from the vaccination site through the proposing to move towards rapid imple- protection in the event of inadvertent expo- blood. Sores break out on parts of the body away from the vaccination site (general- mentation of this plan, we wanted to take sure of a colleague who may have expressly ized vaccinia). this opportunity to formalize these concerns not volunteered for health or other reasons. • A toxic or allergic rash in response to the vaccine that can take various forms (ery- by putting them in writing, as well as to We do not believe the Homeland Security thema multiforme). make clear our position on these issues. Act provides necessary clarity in these mat- Concerns raised are as follows: ters to move forward. Life-threatening reactions Need for information and education: Workers’ compensation: In the event an Rarely, people have had very bad reactions to the vaccine. In the past, between 14 and 52 The implementation plan for this program individual vaccinated is symptomatic or an people per 1 million people vaccinated for the first time experienced potentially life-threat- is moving at a rapid pace, allowing little or exposed colleague of the vaccinated indi- ening reactions. These reactions require immediate medical attention: no time for appropriate and comprehensive vidual becomes symptomatic, there is a lack • Eczema vaccinatum. Serious skin rashes caused by widespread infection of the skin education of the workforce about the plan. of clarity on what coverage shall exist under in people with skin conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis. A first step, prior to any vaccination, must the state’s workers’ compensation law. A • Progressive vaccinia (or vaccinia necrosum). Ongoing infection of skin with tissue be the introduction of a mandatory educa- clear and direct answer on this issue has yet destruction frequently leading to death. tion program on the smallpox vaccine for all to be offered. We strongly urge that a defini- • Postvaccinal encephalitis. Inflammation of the brain. potential smallpox responders, their house- tive answer to this question be given and the People with certain medical conditions—including people with weakened immune sys- hold contacts and co-workers who may be information shared with volunteers before tems or certain skin conditions—are more likely to have these reactions and should not get exposed to the vaccine virus. the plan is implemented. The MNA’s posi- the smallpox vaccine unless they have been exposed to smallpox. Safety of proposed vaccine: The vaccine tion is that workers’ compensation should Based on past experience, it is estimated that between 1 and 2 people out of every 1 million that has been chosen for use under this plan be guaranteed, and that no worker should people vaccinated may die as a result of life-threatening reactions to the vaccine. is more dangerous than that chosen and uti- suffer financially for time lost due to illness Important note: Statistical information about smallpox vaccine adverse reactions is based on data lized to vaccinate the health care workforce or injury related to this plan. from two studies conducted in 1968. Adverse event rates in the United States today may be higher in Israel. Given the risks involved with a because there may be more people at risk from immune suppression (from cancer, cancer therapy, large scale vaccination plan, utilization of Conclusion organ transplants, and illnesses such as HIV/AIDS) and eczema or atopic dermatitis. The outcome a safer vaccine to minimize any negative This position statement identifies the out- associated with adverse events may be less severe than previously reported because of advances in impacts of this program would be prefer- standing concerns and issues of the MNA. medical care. Rates may be lower for persons previously vaccinated. able. Let us be clear: we agree that as a society Safety of needles to deliver vaccination: we must prepare for the event of a bioter- Who should not get vaccinated The needles proposed to be used are unsafe rorist attack, including, but not limited to Some people are at greater risk for serious side effects from the smallpox vaccine. Indi- and fail to comply with the Needlestick smallpox. However, the timetable and the viduals who have any of the following conditions, or live with someone who does, should Safety and Prevention Act of 2000 designed process proposed under this particular plan NOT get the smallpox vaccine unless they have been exposed to the smallpox virus: to protect health care workers and patients is fraught with problems at this time. If the • Eczema or atopic dermatitis. (This is true even if the condition is not currently active, from accidental needlesticks. The MNA’s ultimate goal is to generate broad-based mild or experienced as a child.) position is that the state should only imple- participation among nurses and other health • Skin conditions such as burns, chickenpox, shingles, impetigo, herpes, severe acne, ment a vaccination plan using the safest care workers, to allay their fears and to pro- or psoriasis. (People with any of these conditions should not get the vaccine until needle technology. In addition, it should tect the public health, the current timetable they have completely healed.) be assured that the stoppers used on the and process may not succeed. We, therefore, • Weakened immune system. (Cancer treatment, an organ transplant, HIV, or medi- vaccine vials are not made of latex, which urge the state to take the time and effort to cations to treat autoimmune disorders and other illnesses can weaken the immune would present an inherent danger of seri- address the concerns outlined, as well as system.) ous complications due to allergies to latex those raised by other key participants in this • Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant within one month of vaccination. experienced by up to 17 percent of health process, to develop a plan that will protect In addition, individuals should not get the smallpox vaccine if they: care workers. No needles or syringes should the personal, financial and legal interests of • Are allergic to the vaccine or any of its ingredients. be used that contain latex material. the volunteer participants. • Are younger than 12 months of age. However, the Advisory Committee on Immu- Furloughing of volunteers: The absence of Again, the MNA remains committed to nization Practices (ACIP) advises against non-emergency use of smallpox vaccine a provision for furloughing (providing leave working with the DPH and all other inter- in children younger than 18 years of age. rights) volunteers presents the most serious ested parties to ensure that an effective • Have a moderate or severe short-term illness. (These people should wait until they problem, not only for those vaccinated, but preparedness plan is developed to protect are completely recovered to get the vaccine.) also as it relates to the increase in risk for the public’s safety and health. Pending • Are currently breastfeeding. exposure to others, including patients and adequate resolution of the important issues Again, people who have been directly exposed to the smallpox virus should get the co-workers. Given that experts project that as we have raised, the MNA cannot encourage vaccine, regardless of their health status. many as one in three people who are vacci- participation by our members in the small- Don’t hesitate! If offered the smallpox vaccine, individuals should tell their immunization nated will feel too sick to work or to provide pox immunization plan. n provider if they have any of the above conditions, or even if they suspect they might. n Page 16 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 17

Another viewpoint MNA positions available for election in 2003 Vaccinate against war, not smallpox All MNA members in good standing are eligible to run for any office in the upcoming election. Any member may nominate him/herself or another person by submitting a consent- As health care professionals, some of us sians sent atomic bombs and missiles at us. to-serve form signed by the candidate. A consent-to-serve form is on Page 9. Election policies are being called upon to receive the small- We had regular air raid drills to prepare us and procedures will be sent to those submitting nomination forms. pox vaccine. We are being asked to become for this event. Positions available are for members of MNA Board of Directors, MNA Congresses, the vaccinated against a viral disease that we had We sat under our desks and in hallways Center for Ethics & Human Rights, the Nominations and Elections Committee, and Bylaws been told was eradicated. The obliteration of with our heads between our legs. We were Committee for the 2003 MNA General Election are as follows: this disease marks one of the highest points told not to look at the flash of the explosion President, General*; Secretary, General*; five District Directors, Labor*; four At-Large Direc- of international cooperation. lest it blind us. Ads for backyard fallout shel- tors, Labor*; three At-Large Directors, General*; one Labor Program Member*; five members Governments with opposing ideologies, ters were in all the media. Fear abounded and of the Nominations & Elections Committee representing each district; five members of the governments that were on a daily alert bred hatred and a pro-war politic. A politic Bylaws Committee; six members of each: Congress on Nursing Practice, Congress on Health against each other, governments that were which led our democratically elected govern- Policy & Legislation, Congress on Health & Safety; two members of the Center for Ethics & funding armed conflicts against each other ment to fund dictators throughout the world. Human Rights. all cooperated in eradicating smallpox. West- A politic that led our democratically elected *General means an MNA member in good standing and does not have to be a member ern scientists cooperated with tribal healers, government to support military overthrow of the labor program. Labor means an MNA member in good standing who is also a labor communists cooperated with capitalists, of democratically elected governments. program member. Labor Program Member means a non-RN Healthcare Professional who is dictators cooperated with democratic lead- A politic which led government officials, a member in good standing of the labor program. ers, people of all religions cooperated with charged with protecting our own freedoms, Dates to remember for the MNA election : each other. Yes, Muslims, Christians, Jews, to brand the civil rights movement, the Preliminary Ballot Deadline (Postmarked) – March 15, 2003 Hindus, Buddhists, pantheists and atheists voting rights movement and even some of Final Ballot Deadline (Postmarked) – June 15, 2003 all cooperated to erase the threat of smallpox our unions and environmental movements Ballot Mailing – Sept. 1, 2003 from the world. as conspiracies run from Moscow. Let us not Ballot Return – Sept. 20, 2003 n Now the American people are being told go there again. that the scourge of smallpox is near upon We must use our healthcare abilities us. We are being told that the international to build an international commitment to MNA incumbent office holders for 2003 era of cooperation in combating worldwide peace and human rights. Let the example of Board of Directors diseases is over. We are being told that our smallpox eradication be used to build further Elizabeth Kennedy (2002-2004) President health care system will protect us, that our cooperation. There is new work being done Margaret Sparks (2000-2002) armed might will protect us. As health care on drugs to conquer malaria, to diminish Karen Higgins (2001-2003)* Jane Connelly (2001-2003)* Vice President providers who are likely to be called upon to the effects of HIV. Let us use this and other Sandra LeBlanc (2001-2003)* accept the smallpox vaccine, we say NO. work to enhance international unity instead Patrick Conroy (2002-2004) Center for Nursing Ethics & Human Secretary We say NO not out of fear for our own of hate and fear. Let us use our wealth and Rights health. Every day we face the risk of infec- knowledge to aid people in developing clean Sandy Eaton (2001-2003)* Ellen Farley (2002-2004) Treasurer tious diseases at work. We have never shied water and safe sewage systems. Let us use Anne Schuler (2002-2004) away. We say NO not out of fear of side effects our democracy as an example for others. We Janet Gale (2002-2004) Kelly Shankley (2002-2004) District Directors, Labor to the vaccine. We do not believe ourselves to can do that by not supporting dictators, royal Congress on Health Policy & Legislation District 1 have any risk factors for a bad reaction since families and governments that hoard their Eileen Boyle (2001-2003)* we were vaccinated as children and had no countries’ wealth for a few while oppressing Patricia Healey (2002-2004) Michael D’Intinosanto (2001-2003)** problems. We say NO because vaccinating in the human rights of the majority. Let us wage Lois Cross (2000-2003)* Joanne Ford (2001-2003)* District 2 the face of no known threat is wrong. It rep- a peaceful campaign against all Weapons of Jeannine Hickey (2001-2003)* resents the use of health care as an extension Mass Destruction in all countries and by all Edith Harrigan (2002-2004) Constance Hunter (2002-2004) of an aggressive military posture. A posture governments. Mary Marengo (1999-2003)* Sandra Hottin (2002-2004) District 3 which our government has put forward prior As healthcare professionals we have Joanne Bartoszewicz (2002-2004) to national debate. The posture that we as a pledged first to do no harm. We have Stephanie Stevens (2002-2004) Donna Kelly-Williams (2002-2003)* nation have not only the right but also the pledged to use our skills to help all those in Tina Russell (1999-2003)* George Rotondo (2001-2003)* District 4 responsibility to launch preemptive war. need regardless of their beliefs or their posi- Suzanne Salvucci (2001-2003)* There is no true evidence of anyone pre- tion in society. We will accept the smallpox Jeanine Hickey (2002-2004) Congress on Nursing Practice paring a smallpox attack. Those who are vaccination when it is part of a worldwide Vacancy Philip Donohue (2002-2004) Disrict 5 knowledgeable enough to launch a mass effort to eradicate the disease. In that event Mary Elizabeth Amsler (2002-2004) smallpox attack via aerosol distribution are the healthcare workers of Iraq would be Barbara Norton (2001-2003)* Marianne Chisholm (2002-2004) also knowledgeable enough to know that it inoculated as well. Teana Gilinson (2001-2004) J. Sue Myers (2002-2004) Directors (At-Large/Labor) would not only backfire politically but that Barry Adams, RN, Boston Ann Marie Goucher (2001-2003)* smallpox would spread world wide, affect- Iris Biblowitz, RN, San Francisco, Calif. Jan Spicer (1999-2003)* Patricia Marinelli (2001-2003)* ing their people as well. Those who are fool Amelia M. Cabral, RN, Taunton Sharon McCollum (2001-2003)* Bonnie Beth Pierce (2001-2003)* enough to use suicidal methods to spread Catherine DeLorey, RN, Boston Beth Piknick (2001-2003)* Philip Donohue (2001-2003)* smallpox would ultimately be defeated, since Michael D’Intinosanto, RN, Winchendon Elizabeth Sparks (2000-2003)* Ann Minichino (2001-2003)* we were able to defeat the original smallpox Sandy Eaton, RN, Quincy Kate Maker (2001-2004) Linda Winslow (2001-2003)* epidemics when the virus was spread by Robert Fine, RN, Arlington Sandy Ellis (2002-2004) Karen Carpenter (2001-2003)* individuals unwittingly infected Susan Flowers, RN, Indiana, Pa. Denise Garlick (2002-2004) Anne Mullen (2002 – 2004) Directors (At-Large/General) The government is using the fear of Teana Gilinson, RN, Stoughton Congress on Health & Safety smallpox as a political tool to rally support Patty Healey, RN, Northampton Richard Lambos (2000-2003)* Terri Arthur (2002-2004) for a wrong and possibly criminal policy. It Peggy Lynch, RN, Cambridge Elizabeth Joubert (2002-2004) Seanna Gretchen (2001-2003)* reminds one of the 1950s. Those of us who Michael Lyon, MS, San Francisco, Calif. Margaret O’Malley (2002-2004) Janice Homer (2001-2003)* were children then remember the fear of the Deborah Blaisdell Martin, RN, Waltham James Moura (2001-2003)* Kathryn McGinn-Cutler (2001-2003)* communist nuclear attack. In gym classes, in James Moura, RN, Boston Debra Rigiero (2001-2004) Rosemary O’Brien (2001-2003)* civics classes and in health classes we were Marc Sapir, MD, MPH, Berkeley, Calif. Nora Watts (2002-2004) Kathleen Sperrazza (2001-2003)* shown films of what would occur if the Rus- n Jeannine Williams (2001-2003)* * = Incumbent office holder Labor Program Member ** = Unable to run for this office another term Beth Gray-Nix (2001-2003)* Smallpox 2003: What nurses & others must know Nominations & Elections Committee Jeannine Cunningham (2002-2004)** Board of Directors’ seat Tuesday, February 25, 2003 • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. John Duggan (2002-2004)** Best Western Hotel and Conference Center M. Regina Gahan (2002-2004)** open for MNA District 4 181 Boston Post Road West • Marlboro Mary Goodwin (2002-2004)** There is an opening on the MNA Board of Fees: $55 MNA members; $75 all others Kathlyn Logan (2002-2004)** Directors for appointment of a member from MNA Registration: Contact Susan Clish at MNA at 781-821-4625 x 723 or Janet Manley (2002-2004)** District 4. If you are interested in serving on the 800-882-2056 x 723. Checks or credit cards accepted. Bylaws Committee board or want to learn more about this position, Susan Delucia (1999-2001) contact Rosemary Smith at 781-830-5740 to obtain Presented by the MNA in cooperation with the Mass. Depart. of Public Health Kathryn F. Zalis (1999-2001) a consent-to-serve form. n Page 16 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 17 MNA sponsors two successful group trips to Sorrento By Carol Mallia RN, MSN Nurse and avid traveler MNA partnered with Durgan Travel over two years ago to offer affordable European vacations to our members and their friends and families. The MNA’s plan is to offer trips priced around $1,500 per person and offer all- inclusive packages when possible. Because of our large membership of 20,000 nurses, the MNA can offer package pricing which cannot be obtained through the traditional travel sources. This year the interest in Sorrento, Italy was so great we had to add a second group which traveled a week later. Both groups enjoyed the riches that the Sorrento area had to offer in a slightly different order of events each day. Below is a description of the adventures of the first group. The group began its journey from the MNA headquarters office where a motor coach met the group to take them to Logan Airport. After a comfortable flight on Lufthansa Airlines we arrived in Naples, Italy and were greeted by Sorrento, Italy group members from the November 13-21 tour gather on the Isle of Capri. our escort for the week. Our motor coach toured us along the beautiful ocean-side road busses up to the town of Capri and enjoyed guide took us to visit the famous St. Peter’s serenaded us to traditional Italian music. The in route to our home-base hotel in Sorrento. a wonderful lunch at a cliff-side restaurant. Basilica in the Vatican City. We learned the his- dinner proved to be a crowning touch to an We recharged our batteries at an open-air Following lunch many of the group members tory of the Vatican and toured inside to view extraordinary tour. garden restaurant while our bags were headed up to Anna Capri to visit the sites and the Pieta and the most magnificent mosaic Our second tour group to Sorrento delivered to our hotel rooms. After check- shops. We boarded the ferry back to Sorrento art work in the world. In the afternoon we departed on a little over a week later and ing in many of the guests set out to explore for dinner at the hotel boarded the motor coach for a panoramic tour enjoyed the same grand style vacation as the the shops in the town and others opted to The famous Amalfi Drive was the desti- of Rome including a stop at the ancient ruins first group. Though the days differed, the relax on the hotel’s roof deck or lounge by nation for Day 5 of our tour. Our guided of the Colosseum and the most famous foun- itinerary remained the same for their tour of the pool. Dinner was served in grand style excursion toured one of the most picturesque tain in Rome, the Fountain of Trevi. Legend the beautiful region of Sorrento. at the hotel that evening as the group got and famous roads in the world. With the hair- has it that if you toss a coin into the fountain If you would like to be part of future MNA/ further acquainted with each other. pin turns along the edge of the mountain we standing backwards, your wish to return to Durgan Travel tours, contact Carol Mallia at Our first day began with a guided walking saw many quaint villages. We stopped to Rome will be granted. The MNA will certainly 781-830-5755 or email at [email protected] tour of Sorrento which started with a tour of explore the ancient marine town of Amalfi have to plan another tour of Rome given all to be on the mailing list. In 2003 we are plan- the Correale Museum to admire the private with the beautiful Cathedral of St Andrew. the passengers who made that wish. ning a tour of Germany and Austria in late collection of fine art belonging to the Correale After a short motor coach ride we arrived in For our last night of our tour, we stayed in a May and two tours of Montecatini Spa located noble family. After the museum we walked the little town of Scala to enjoy a spectacular hotel in downtown Rome. At our final dinner in the Province of Tuscany, Italy in October. over to a lemon grove to enjoy a local favorite, view and a delicious homemade pasta meal. together we were treated with the entertain- Please don’t miss the opportunities MNA and The tour continued leisurely ment of classically trained opera singers who Durgan Travel are offering. n along to the village of Rav- ello where we stopped to Reserve early – Space is limited to 48 people per trip! enjoy the town. Then it was back to our hotel for another delightful dinner. MNA is sponsoring Day 6 was spent touring the lost city of Pompeii and 2 exciting group trips its excavations. Our knowl- edgeable guide explained the history of Pompeii to Europe in 2003 which was a village built by the Romans in the year 80 May 26 - June 4 – Germany and Austria $1,569* BC. Following the eruption This 10 day/ 8 night grand tour of the Tyrolean region will of Mount Vesuvius in the feature 6 nights in Austria and 2 nights in Germany. Trip year 79 AC, Pompeii, a city includes tours of Innsbruck, Salzburg, Rothenberg, Munich, of 20,000 people was buried Sorrento, Italy Rattenberg, Wattens and Vipitino. Air, transfers, hotel, for hundreds of years until breakfast and dinner daily as well as full sightseeing tours lemonchella. We then boarded small motor excavation began in the 18th are included. Don’t miss this grand tour of the picturesque century. Pompeii is on the list of Wonders of coaches and were taken to a wood carving Tyrolean Region. factory and shop where we learned about the the World and at least one quarter of the city fine art of in-laid wood boxes and furniture. remains to be excavated. Following our tour October 19 - 27 – Montecatini Spa located in Tuscany we enjoyed lunch at a local restaurant and The tour continued on with a walking tour of Italy $1469* the historic area of Sorrento. After a relaxing departed for Naples for a panoramic city tour Province, This all-inclusive trip to the Tuscany region of Italy includes lunch at the hotel, we enjoyed a picturesque and tour of the downtown area. hillside tour of the local Marciano’s Farm. Our last day in Sorrento was an open day tours to Florence, Venice, Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano while There we learned how olive oil and moz- in which many of the passengers just enjoyed staying in the world famous spa city of Montecatini. Air, zarella are made in the old traditional Italian the quaint shops and local cafes of Sorrento. transfers, hotel, all meals as well as full sightseeing tours are way. The highlight of the day was to taste Others in our tour took the local bus and included. Offered as an all-inclusive trip, this package is a home-made brochetta with this superb cheese headed to Positano a quaint village south of great value. Sorrento, while others in the group boarded and their home-made red wine. *Prices listed are per person, double occupancy based on check or cash purchase. a boat to the Isle of Ishia a scenic island off The next day we were off by boat to the Applicable departure taxes are not included in the listed prices above. beautiful Isle of Capri. About half of the the coast. The group reconvened later that group opted to board a smaller boat to tour evening to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant To receive more information and a flyer on these European vacations, the scenic coast and grottos on the back side with live Neapolitan music. please contact Carol Mallia, RN, MSN, 781-830-5755 or of the island while the other half of the group On our last full day of the tour, we departed email at [email protected] shopped in the seaside village. We took small our hotel early and headed to Rome. Our Page 18 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 19 MNA Convention 2002 Organizing Our Future October 2, 3 & 4, 2002 Clarion Hotel and Conference Center Nantasket Beach, Hull, Mass. Thank You

The Massachusetts Nurses Association gratefully acknowledges the generous support of the exhibitors and sponsors of the 2002 MNA Convention.

Exhibitors Sponsors

ADVANCE Newsmagazines Houlton Regional Hospital Cingular Wireless AIG VALIC ISI Lester L. Burdick, Inc. Nurses Service Organization Alexander’s Uniforms Lifeline McDonald & Associates Boston Medical Center Newton-Wellesley Hospital Colonial Insurance Services Brigham and Women’s Hospital Northern Essex Therapeutic Footwear Frontier Capital Management Cape Cod Hospital Nurses Service Organization PaineWebber Caritas Carney Hospital Regis College Nursing Center ADVANCE Newsmagazines Cingular Wireless Signator Financial Network LEAD Brokerage Colonial Insurance Services Sigvaris, Inc. MNA Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Cooley Dickinson Hospital Work ‘n Gear Core Medical Group

Sponsors of the Safe Care Campaign Fundraiser The MNA gratefully acknowledges the generous support of the sponsors of the Safe Care Campaign Fundraiser

Platinum MNA District 3 Mandrian House–Szechuan & Brigham and Women’s Hospital Marlborough Hospital Bargaining Unit Nurses Mandarin Cuisine, Stoughton Bargaining Unit Nurses Merrimack Valley Hospital McDonald’s, Canton MNA District 4 Bargaining Unit Nurses Murray’s Deli, Braintree MNA District 5 Donations Rosemary Smith Unit 7 State Council Members Andy Ferris Shirley Duggan Gold Bacchus Liquors, Canton Shirley Thompson Mass Envelope Plus Carol Mallia Staples Business Advantage McDonald & Associates Carolyn Anderson Teana Gilinson Massachusetts Association of Charlie Stefanini Tom Breslin Nurse Anesthetists David Schildmeier Wendy McGill Silver Dorothy McCabe 99 Restaurants, Canton Boston Medical Center Bargaining Unit Nurses Eileen Norton Golf Club Factory, Canton Special thank you to Table Sponsor Chris Stetkiewicz for her artistic Brockton Hospital Bargaining Unit Nurses Joe Ann Fergus creative design of the gift baskets MNA District 1 Jon Neal MNA District 2 Kate Anderson Page 18 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 19 MNA Ls Vegs Nig nrr r Sf Cr

From left, Janet Spicer, June Nichols, Joyce Berklee. From left, Mike D’Intinosanto, Jim Moura, Carolyn Moss, Cece Buckley, Teana Gilinson, Denise Garlick, Linda Winslow.

MNA rs ha  b n li dw   ucs  t “Ls Vegs Nig” nrr r t Sf Cr cpig, l  cjnci t t MNA Cvi  Octr 2002.

Eileen Boyle, left, and Mary Grealish.

From left, Elaine Adams, Debbie Flight, Susan Vickory, Rosemary O’Brien and Peggy From left, Cathi Renzi, Jeanette Olsen, Peggy O’Malley. Donovan. Page 20 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 21 MNA Annual Awards: Recognizing accomplishments and achievements ELAINE COONEY LABOR RELATIONS AWARD program at the University of Massachusetts safety conditions in workplaces in Eastern Robert Spillane, a native DEBRA RIGIERO AND RICHARD LAMBOS Graduate School of Nursing. As Melinda’s and Central Massachusetts. Currently, she is of Worcester, was elected nominator states, “Mel’s professional, posi- Health and Safety Coordinator, Massachusetts to the Massachusetts The Elaine Cooney Labor Relations Award tive attitude and passion for nursing shines AFL-CIO where her duties include develop- House of Representatives recognizes a Labor Relations program member through every day! Mel is my mentor.” ing, presenting and evaluating occupational in 2000 and presently who has made significant contributions to the Dezra Kenney is a psychiatric mental health safety and education, training and delivering serves on the Joint Com- professional, economic and general welfare of clinical nurse specialist in the psychiatric those services to Unions in Massachusetts. mittee of Commerce and nursing. emergency services at Cambridge Health She is the author of numerous articles and Labor and the Housing Debra Rigiero is co- Alliance. In that role, she evaluates psychiatric programs on worker safety and the role of and Urban Development chair of St. Vincent’s emergency patients for determination of the unions and has been recognized for her work Committee. Spillane was Hospital Bargaining level of care required. Beginning as an LPN, in the form of awards and commendations. a strong advocate for reg- Unit. Debra was instru- Robert Spillane Debra has a wealth of experience in over 20 Nancy was one of the key persons in the istered nurses even before mental in organizing years of nursing. She uses that experience to long and difficult battle for the rights and taking office in 2000. He walked the picket the St. Vincent nurses provide excellent care to patients and support compensation for the nurses at Brigham and line with St. Vincent nurses and supported to a successful union to her nursing colleagues. She has precepted Women’s Hospital affected by poor air quality. MNA at many of our events in Worcester. vote, a historic success- nursing students and new staff members. She She guided those nurses to a final resolution. After election, he supported the organizing ful strike and garnering has used her considerable leadership skills Since then, she has been a partner and advo- efforts of the UMass Memorial Nurses. He the support for nursing to further the nursing profession by assum- cate for the health and safety of all nurses. became a co-sponsor for MNA’s quality of the general Worcester Debra Rigiero ing leadership positions at the Cambridge She has walked our picket lines and helped patient care/safe RN staffing legislation, community. Not content Health Alliance and other professional nurs- us build coalitions that will enable our orga- and offered his services as a spokesper- with this victory, she has continued to sup- ing organizations. She is a skilled clinician nization to provide for the health and safety son for this bill. He has pressed to restore port other local unions in their struggle for and a dedicated nurse. of nurses in Massachusetts and across the funding to the state agencies that provide justice and assumed leadership positions country. Nancy has been a catalyst in making services to our most vulnerable citizens. on the MNA district and state level. She is IMAGE OF THE PROFESSIONAL NURSE AWARD Occupational Health and Safety a priority at Rep. Spillane stands out among his peers presently vice-president of District 2 and a MICHAEL D’INTINOSANTO MNA. As her nominator states, “Her devotion in his tireless advocacy for nursing. I quote, member of the MNA Board of Directors. This The Image of the Professional Nurse Award to all workers has never failed. Her voice in “Registered nurses are the labor force and award recognizes her numerous contributions recognizes a member who has demonstrated out- their behalf has never faltered.” backbone of the healthcare industry.” to her colleagues and to nursing. standing leadership in enhancing the image of the We are truly fortunate to have him as an Richard Lambos has MNA ADVOCATE FOR NURSING AWARD professional nurse in the community. advocate. served for many years DISTRICT ATTORNEY WILLIAM R. KEATING Michael D’Intinosanto as chairperson for the MNA LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD is a man who exempli- The MNA Non-Nurse Award recognizes the Martha’s Vineyard Hos- SEN. JOHN KERRY fies service: Service to contributions of an individual, who is not a nurse, pital MNA bargaining his patients, his profes- to nurses and the nursing profession. The MNA Legislator of the Year Award rec- unit. In this role he has sion, his family and his This year’s recipient ognizes the work of a senior state legislator or a successfully guided the community. As a night of the MNA Advocate federal legislator who has clearly demonstrated nurses through negotia- supervisor at the Tem- for Nursing Award is exceptional contributions to nursing and health- tions for numerous labor pleton Developmental William R. Keating, Dis- care. relations agreements and Center, he is responsible trict Attorney, Norfolk This year’s recipient of this newly estab- Richard Lambos has shown a tremendous for supervising nursing County. lished award is U.S. Senator John Kerry. commitment to the bar- staff providing services M. D’Intinosanto Webster’s Dictionary Senator Kerry has been a strong advocate gaining process. He has been active in labor to residential clients defines an advocate as for nurses and the people we serve through- relations at both the local and state levels. who are developmentally disabled/dually “one who supports or out his career in public service. In the present He has been a mentor and role model for the diagnosed persons. As an active professional, defends a cause.” By his Health Care Crisis, Senator Kerry has stood nurses at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. he has served on multiple boards, commit- record, it is clear that Dis- William Keating with us and addressed both our present and MNA EXCELLENCE IN NURSING PRACTICE AWARD tees, commissions, including NursePLAN, trict Attorney Keating has future concerns. He is an original co-spon- MELINDA DARRIGO AND DEZRA L. KENNEY Statewide Campaign for Safe Care, the Blue been a consistent supporter of nursing. From sor of S. 1686, The Safe Nursing and Patient Ribbon Commission on Legislation and as the late seventies in the House of Representa- Care Act of 2001, a bill to amend XVIII of the The MNA Excellence in Nursing Practice chairman of the MNA Congress on Health tives to the present day as District Attorney, Social Security Act to provide for patient pro- Award recognizes a member who demonstrates Policy & Legislation. Michael is also active in Bill Keating has always sought nursing’s tection by limiting the number of mandatory an outstanding performance in nursing practice. his community and has served on a variety voice and advice when faced with health overtime hours a nurse may be required to This award publicly acknowledges the essential of committees in his town. In fact, there are related issues. As District Attorney, he has work in certain providers of services under contributions that nurses across all practice set- very few MNA initiatives in which Michael always been aware of the dual role nurses the Medicare Program. Addressing nursing’s tings make to the health care of our society. has not been a participant. His nominator assume where they have the responsibility of concerns for the future, he is the main spon- Melinda Darrigo is a staff nurse in the states it well, “I have always known Mike providing direct care to crime victims while sor of S. 1597, The Nurse Reinvestment Act cardio-thoracic/vascular ICU at UMass to be a man of the highest personal integrity. gathering and preserving evidence that may which will award grants for nursing edu- Memorial Hospital, University Campus. He always conducts himself in a professional be used in the prosecution of the perpetrators cation, establish a National Nurse Service Melinda is highly respected by her peers manner.” of these crimes. He has consistently advocated Corp. Scholarship Program and provide and supervisors. She consistently contrib- for the full funding of the Sexual Assault Public Service Announcements to promote utes to her work environment beyond what KATHRYN MCGINN CUTLER ADVOCATE FOR Nurse Examiner’s Program. His support to the nursing profession, highlight its rewards is required by her position. Melinda functions HEALTH AND SAFETY AWARD the MNA Workplace Violence Task Force has and encourage individuals from diverse com- as a role-model by teaching and mentoring NANCY LESSIN been consistent and commendable. His office munities and backgrounds to enter nursing. new staff nurses. She is an instructor in critical The MNA Kathryn McGinn Cutler Award has provided many resources. This legislation, signed by President Bush is care orientation classes and willingly shares recognizes an individual or group that has per- District Attorney Keating has worked with the largest public commitment to nursing in her vast clinical knowledge and experience. formed outstanding service for the betterment of the Task Force to implement policies and decades. She is active in numerous professional nurs- health and safety and for the protection of nurses encourage programs designed to prevent Senator Kerry’s commitment to nursing ing organizations and a graduate student in and other healthcare workers. workplace violence and to prosecute those was most evident to our members when the Acute/critical care nurse practitioner Nancy Lessin began who engage in this unlawful behavior. He he personally brokered the settlement of her career as a respira- has been the recipient of numerous awards the 103 day strike of our nurses at Brockton tory therapist, and then and commendations. Hospital. Senator Kerry made it very clear at became a health outreach that time the Hospital Administrations have FRANK M. HYNES AWARD worker and co-founder a responsibility to prevent unsafe staffing and REP. ROBERT SPILLANE and Director of the Ann the inappropriate use of mandatory overtime Arbor Free Clinic in The Frank M. Hynes Award recognizes the to staff the hospitals. It is imperative that our Michigan. She spent 20 work of an elected public official in Massachusetts hospitals remain safe for the patients and for years at MASSCOSH, an who clearly demonstrates exceptional contribu- the nurses. organization whose mis- tions to nursing and healthcare. Senator Kerry has earned this award by sion is to assist in efforts This year’s recipient of the Frank M. Hynes Nancy Lessin his consistent and continuing commitment Melinda Darrigo Dezra L. Kenney to improve health and Award is Rep. Robert Spillane. to nurses and the people they serve. n Page 20 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 21 Congratulations to the 2002 MNF scholarship recipients The Massachusetts Nurses Foundation has selected the Program at Boston College where she will earn her Master’s where she will earn her baccalaureate degree in labor studies. following applicants for scholarship funding. We are proud in Nursing Science in pediatrics to become a Pediatric Nurse Jeanine is employed as a staff nurse in the critical care unit at to say we this year we have awarded over $14,500 in schol- Practitioner. She is presently doing her synthesis clinical hours Merrimack Valley Hospital. arships. Through your donations, we are able to present the in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the New England Medical FAULKNER HOSPITAL ENTRY LEVEL SCHOLARSHIP following scholarships for 2002: Center Floating Hospital. TAMMY ADAMS BACCALAUREATE DEGREE SCHOLARSHIP JANET DUNPHY SCHOLARSHIP Funded by a sustaining scholarship DOROTHY MAJELLA CAMPBELL LABOR RELATIONS SCHOLARSHIP DONNA BARRON HOWLETT endowed by the Faulkner Hospital This scholarship is offered to students enrolled in a direct School of Nursing Alumnae Association, entry program for a baccalaureate/master’s degree in Funded by a scholarship established by District 5, this to a student attending entry level RN nursing. scholarship is given annually to an MNA member, active in program. Dorothy Majella Campbell of Boston has been selected to District 5 and pursuing a BS, MS or Doctoral degree. The 2002 Faulkner Hospital Entry Level receive the Baccalaureate Degree Scholarship. A graduate of The Labor Relations Sscholarship is funded annually by a Scholarship is awarded to Tammy Adams The Ulster Hospital in Northern Ireland, Dorothy is currently grant established by the MNA Cabinet for Labor Relations. of Franklin. An honor student at Franklin enrolled in the baccalaureate degree program at the Univer- This scholarship is for an RN or health care professional, High School, Tammy has been accepted sity of Massachusetts in Boston. She is currently employed member of MNA, attending baccalaureate or master’s to the nursing programs at Colby Sawyer as a fulltime staff nurse on the inpatient psychiatric unit at program in nursing, labor relations, or a related field. College and the University of New Hamp- Tammy Adams Cambridge Hospital. Donna Barron Howlett of Quincy is the shire. CATHERINE TINKHAM AWARD recipient of the Janet Dunphy Scholarship MNF CONNIE MOORE AWARD DAVID ANDREW DENNENO and the Labor Relations Scholarship. DAWN MARIE ADAMS Donna is a graduate of Laboure Junior Named for Catherine Tinkham, a founding member and College and is enrolled in the baccalau- Funded by a sustaining scholarship endowed by the long-standing supporter of the MNF awarded to the highest reate degree in nursing program at Curry Faulkner Hospital School of Nursing ranking* MS candidate. College. She is employed at Carney Hos- Alumnae Association, to an RN David Andrew Denneno of Stoughton pital in the critical care unit and has served pursuing a BSN or MSN degree. is the recipient of the Catherine Tinkham as the secretary/treasurer/negotiator and Dawn Marie Adams of Franklin is Award. David is enrolled in the MSN active MNA representative on the Carney a 1976 graduate of Faulkner Hospital (Family Nurse Practitioner) Program at Hospital bargaining unit. Donna Howlett and has been chosen to receive the MNF Regis College. He has earned a bache- Connie Moore Award. Dawn is enrolled in WORCESTER CITY HOSPITAL AID SOCIETY lor’s degree in biology, master’s degree the bachelor of science in nursing program SCHOLARSHIP in education, and received an associate’s at Framingham State College where she KARA MARIE TRAVINSKI degree in nursing from Massasoit Com- is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Interna- munity College. He has been employed Funded by a sustaining scholarship, endowed by the tional Honor Society of Nursing. Dawn Adams for the last 10 years in the Emergency Worcester City Hospital Aid Society, this $1,000 scholarship Department at Quincy Medical Center. MNF DISTRICT 4 SCHOLARSHIP David Denneno is awarded annually to a Worcester area high school senior JUDY ANNE MISIASZEK An active member of the MNA, David is attending a BSN program. involved in the Workplace Violence Task Force. The Worcester City Hospital Aid Society Scholarship is The MNF District 4 Scholarship is presented to Judy Anne Misiaszek of Plaistow, N.H. A graduate of the Memorial MASTER’S DEGREE SCHOLARSHIP awarded to Kara Marie Travinski of Southbridge. Kelly is a MELINDA DARRIGO student at Southbridge High School and has been accepted Hospital School of Nursing, Judy is enrolled in the master’s to the nursing program at Villanova University. Kelly is a degree program at Northeastern University majoring in adult This scholarship is offered to students enrolled in a direct member of the National Honor Society and volunteered at primary care. An active member of the Anna Jaques Hospital entry program for a baccalaureate/master’s degree in Harrington Memorial Hospital Shadow Nurse Program. Bargaining Unit, Judy has served as local unit secretary, was nursing. a member of the negotiations committee and has been a floor Melinda Darrigo of Leominster is the 2002 recipient of the FLORENTINE FILMS AWARD representative. She is employed as a staff nurse at the Anna Master’s Degree Scholarship. Melinda is a graduate of Salem JEANINE HICKEY Jaques Hospital in the endoscopy department. State College and is enrolled in the acute care nurse practitio- Named for the producers of NANCY WALDEN AWARD ner program, including a cardiac subspecialty at the Graduate “Sentimental Women Need Not Apply,” JANINE DESROSIERS School of Nursing Program at the University of Massachusetts awarded to the highest ranking* Worcester. She is employed as a staff nurse in the cardiotho- Named for Nancy Walden, previous MNA president, District 1 candidate. racic ICU at UMass Memorial Medical Center. The 2001 Florentine Films Award is awarded to the highest ranking* BSN candidate. Janine Desrosiers of East Falmouth is a graduate of Cape EILEEN HODGMAN AWARD presented to Jeanine Hickey of Bradford. Cod Community College. Janine is enrolled in the BSN LAUREN MARIKO SAKODA A graduate of Northern Essex Commu- program at the University of Massachusetts Boston and nity College, Jeanine is enrolled in the Lauren Mariko Sakoda of Brighton is the recipient of the plans to pursue her master’s degree after graduation. She is College of Community & Public Service Eileen Hodgman Award. Lauren is enrolled in the Direct Entry employed as a registered emergency room nurse at Falmouth at the University of Massachusetts Boston Jeanine Hickey Hospital. The MNA awards process

Each year the MNA offers its members the opportunity port the nomination. When you write the nomination awards committee members are appointed by the Board to recognize their peers who have made significant con- letter, keep the award criteria in front of you. For each of Directors of MNA. All nominating information and tributions to nursing and the populations they serve. criteria listed, your letter should contain a description the nomination process itself is kept confidential. Once If you are interested in nominating a fellow nurse or example of how your nominee meets this criteria. the nominees have been selected, the Awards Committee for a prestigious MNA award, this article will assist in Remember, the purpose of this letter is to specify make the recommendations to the Board of Directors. describing how to nominate a candidate, and the awards examples of the nominee’s qualifications, not to tell the The final approval of awards nominees is given by the selection process. Awards Committee what a great person your nominee is! Board of Directors of MNA. If you are interested in nominating someone, call MNA The awards committee members can only consider mate- Once the Board of Directors completes their approval and obtain a copy of the award criteria. Each award has rial that has been submitted as part of the nomination. If process, letters are sent to all award nominees and nomi- very specific criteria that needs to be followed by the your letter cites examples of the nominee’s accomplish- nators informing them of the final award selections. nominators and the awards committee. Read through ments that have no bearing on the award criteria, they The MNA awards are presented at an annual awards the criteria for the award. Once you are assured your can not be considered. Make sure all the information is banquet during the annual MNA Convention in the nomination can fit the criteria, talk to the person you complete on the nomination form and the nomination fall. want to nominate. You must secure permission from the meets the established deadline. No late nominations can The recognition of our nursing peers is both a privilege nominee to submit the application. be processed. and a professional responsibility. We urge all members to The nomination must be made by a member of MNA. The awards committee members meet to review all the take the opportunity to give recognition to their nursing There needs to be one letter of recommendation to sup- nomination materials and to select awards recipients. The colleagues. n Page 22 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 23 MNA Continuing Education Courses Your source for career training and advancement

Emergency Medical Response Basic Dysrhythmia Interpretation

to Hazardous Materials and Acts of Terrorism Description This course is designed for registered nurses in acute, sub acute and Description The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is long-term care settings to learn cardiac monitoring and dysrhythmia inter- sponsoring this program on emergency medical services in response pretation. Implications and clinical management of cardiac dysrhythmias to hazardous materials and acts of terrorism. The program is specifi- will also be discussed. Course will include a text book, calipers and require cally designed for physicians, nurses, EMTs, and hospital support staff study between sessions one and two. to provide education in the treatment of individuals exposed to chemical Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN and biological agents. The program will include identification of hazardous Dates Tuesday, March 4 & 11 (Snow date: March 18) materials, toxicological and biological effects of chemicals and biological Time 5:00- 9:00 p.m. acts of terrorism. The chemical profile of common agents, the decontami- Place MNA Headquarters, Canton nation procedures and personal protective equipment will be discussed. Fee MNA members, $90; all others, $125 CDC guidelines for surveillance of exposed nurses and other health care Contact hours* 9.0 workers and nursing interventions for patient care will be identified. Special notes Program limited to 40 participants. Speakers Anthony Fucaloro, EMT MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Capt. Lawrence P. Ferazani Evie Bain, RN, MEd, COHN-S Oncology Series for Nurses Dates Wednesday, January 22 (Snow date Jan. 29) Time 9:00 – 5:00 p.m. Description A three-part series designed for nurses to increase their knowledge in Place MNA Headquarters, Canton oncology nursing. The content of Session 1 of the series will include an Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 overview of cancer management, tumor physiology and staging, relevant Contact hours* 6.9 laboratory testing, treatment strategies and safe handling of neoplastic Special notes Lunch provided. Class limited to 25. agents. Session 2 will discuss chemotherapy administration, classification MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 of chemotherapeutic agents, management of toxicities and adverse effects of treatments and oncological emergencies. Session 3 will include pain Interpreting Laboratory Values and symptom management, palliative care and an overview of Hospice care. Description This program will enhance the nurse’s ability to evaluate and determine Speaker Marylou Gregory-Lee MSN. RNCS, OCN, Adult Nurse Practitioner the clinical significance of laboratory values. Clinical case studies will be Dates Thursday, March 6, 13 & 20 (Snow date: March 27) used to illustrate the relationship of laboratory values to patient conditions. Time 5:30- 9:00 p.m. Clinical management of abnormal laboratory values will be discussed. Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN Fee Series: MNA members, $175; all others, $255 Date Tuesday, February 4 (Snow date: Feb. 11) Each session: MNA members, $65; all others, $95 Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Contact hours* 3.6 per program. Total for series: 10.8 Place MNA Headquarters, Canton MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Contact hours* 4.1 Mechanical Ventilation MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Description This course will provide an overview of mechanical ventilation types, Verbal Self Defense for Nurses modes and therapies. Course will also discuss the nursing management of a patient on mechanical ventilation. Description This program is designed to provide the nurse with the basic skills for Speakers Carol Mallia,RN, MSN managing conflict in the workplace environment. Conflict resolution Date Tuesday, March 25 strategies are discussed. The program will conclude with an interactive Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. discussion of case scenarios related to conflict management. Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Speaker Joe-Ann Fergus RN, BSN Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Date Wednesday, February 5 (Snow date: Feb. 12) Contact hours* 4.5 Time 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 The Real Nursing World: Transition from Student to RN Contact hours* TBA MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Description Don’t miss one of these unique programs offering you an opportunity to address questions or concerns to a panel comprised of recent graduates Diabetes 2003: What Nurses Need to Know from various schools of nursing and experienced nurses with knowledge in nursing education, nursing administration, labor relations & political Description Session 1: This session will discuss the pathophysiology and classifica- action and career counseling. Area hospitals and other healthcare facili- tion of Diabetes Type 1 and 2. The nursing implications of blood glucose ties will be available before and after the program to discuss employment monitoring will be discussed. Non-pharmacological interventions such as opportunities. exercise and meal planning will be explained. The program will conclude Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN, facilitator with a discussion of oral pharmacological agents. Date April 3 Session 2: This session is designed to provide the nurse with a compre- Time 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. hensive update on insulin therapy. The nursing management of the newly Place Holiday Inn, Worcester diagnosed diabetic patient, both complicated and not, will be explored. Date April 8 Nursing management of the diabetic patient in the pre/post operative, Time 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. ambulatory care, home care and school setting will be discussed. Place Lombardo’s Function Facility, Randolph Speaker Ann Miller, MS, RN, CS, CDE, Date April 9 Dates Session 1: Thursday, February 6 (Snow date: Feb. 20) Time 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. Session 2: Thursday, February 13 (Snow date: Feb. 20) Place Springfield Marriott Hotel, Springfield Time 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. Fee Free to senior nursing students and faculty Place MNA Headquarters, Canton MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Fee MNA members, $65 all others, $95 (Each session) Contact hours* 3.6 each session n Applying OSHA to healthcare settings MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Free CE program. Complete details, Page 16. Page 22 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003 January/February 2003 Massachusetts Nurse Page 23

Nursing Management of Central Lines Wound Care — Dressing for Success

Description This program describes the multiple venous access devices used in Description This program will provide a comprehensive overview of the factors central line therapy. Indications for tunneled vs. non-tunneled lines and effecting wound care and strategies for managing complex wounds. A potential complications will be discussed. The nursing management and thorough review of wound products will enable the attendee to select the legal aspects in managing the care of these devices will be described in optimal dressing based on clinical findings. New dimensions of wound detail. care, such as growth factors, hyperbaric oxygen, electrical stimulation, Speakers Mary Walsh RN, BS, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist cultured skin replacements and vacuum-assisted closure devices will Marilyn Bernard RN, CRNI, Infusion Therapy Specialist also be discussed. Date Thursday, April 24 Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN, CWOCN Time 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Date Thursday, June 5 Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Fee MNA members, $65 all others, $95 Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Contact hours* 3.0 Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Special notes Program limited to 20 participants. Contact hours* 4.5 MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 Advanced Cardiac Life Support Managing Cardiac & Respiratory Emergencies

Description This American Heart Association course will provide information on the Description This course is designed for registered nurses in acute, sub-acute and clinical management of cardiac and respiratory emergencies through long-term care settings to learn the clinical management of cardiac and case study approach. Course content includes assessment, arrhythmia respiratory emergencies. Clinical management of chest pain, brief EKG recognition, intubation, defibrillation and pharmacological interventions. interpretation, ABG interpretation and clinical management of respiratory This is a two-day certification and one day re-certification course. Recer- distress will also be discussed. tification candidates must present a copy of their current ACLS card at Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN the time of registration. Date Tuesday, June 10 Speakers Carol Mallia, RN, MSN, and other instructors for the clinical sessions Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Dates Tuesday, April 29 & May 6 (certification); May 6 (recertification) Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Time 9:00 – 5:00 p.m. Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Contact hours* 4.0 Fee Certification: MNA members, $155; all others, $195 MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 Recertification: MNA members, $125; all others, $165 Contact hours* 16 for certification program Interpreting Laboratory Values Special notes Light lunch provided. Enrollment limited to 48 participants. MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 Description This program will enhance the nurse’s ability to evaluate and determine the clinical significance of laboratory values. Clinical case studies will be Emergency Medical Response used to illustrate the relationship of laboratory values to patient conditions. Clinical management of abnormal laboratory values will be discussed. to Hazardous Materials and Acts of Terrorism Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN Description The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is sponsor- Date Monday, June 16 ing this program on emergency medical services in response to hazardous Time 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. materials and acts of terrorism. The program is specifically designed for Place MNA Headquarters, Canton physicians, nurses, EMTs, and hospital support staff to provide educa- Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 tion in the treatment of individuals exposed to chemical and biological Contact hours* 4.1 agents. The program will include identification of hazardous materials, MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 toxicological and biological effects of chemicals and biological acts of Acute Care Nursing: 3-Program Series: The three offerings of Wound Care — Dressing for terrorism. The chemical profile of common agents, the decontamination Success, Managing Cardiac & Respiratory Emergencies and Interpreting Laboratory Values procedures and personal protective equipment will be discussed. CDC have been grouped for a reduced package price. Register for all three and save $20. guidelines for surveillance of exposed nurses and other health care work- ers and nursing interventions for patient care will be identified. Speakers Anthony Fucaloro, EMT Capt. Lawrence P. Ferazani Important Information for all courses Evie Bain, RN, MEd, COHN-S Dates Wednesday, May 7 Registration Registration will be processed on a space available basis. Enroll- Time 9:00 – 5:00 p.m. ment is limited for all courses. Place MNA Headquarters, Canton Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 Payment Payment may be made with MasterCard or Visa by calling MNA or Contact hours* 6.9 by mailing a check to MNA, 340 Turnpike St., Canton, MA 02021 Special notes Lunch provided. Class limited to 25. Refunds Refunds are issued up to two weeks before the program date MNA contact Theresa Yannetty, 781-830-5727 or 800-882-2056, x727 minus a 25% processing fee. No refunds are made less than 14 days before the program's first session or for subsequent ses- Advanced Dysrhythmia Interpretation sions of a multi-day program. Program MNA reserves the right to cancel programs when registration Description This course is designed for nurses who have had a basic course in moni- Cancellation is insufficient. toring patients for cardiac rhythm disturbances and wish to enhance that Contact Continuing Education Contact Hours are provided for all programs knowledge base with more complex monitoring of advance dysrhythmias. Hours except Advanced Cardiac Life Support by the Massachusetts The course will describe the EKG changes related to ischemia, injury, Nurses Association, which is accredited as a provider of continu- and infarct. The EKG abnormalities associated with toxic drug levels and ing education in nursing by the American Nurses Credentialing electrolyte imbalances will also be described. The course will conclude Center’s Commission on Accreditation. Contact hours for with an overview of pacemakers and common pacemaker rhythm distur- Advanced Cardiac Life Support is provided by the Rhode Island bances. State Nurses Association, which is accredited as a provider of Speaker Carol Mallia RN, MSN continuing education in nursing by the American Nurses Creden- Dates Tuesday, May 13 tialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. Time 5:00- 9:00 p.m. *To successfully complete a program and receive contact Place MNA Headquarters, Canton hours, you must: 1. Sign in. 2. Be present for the entire time Fee MNA members, $45; all others, $65 period of the session. 3. Complete the evaluation. Special notes Enrollment limited to 40 participants. Contact hours* 3.2 Chemical Scents may trigger responses in those with chemical sensitivity. MNA contact Susan Clish, 781-830-5723 or 800-882-2056, x723 Sensitivity Please avoid wearing scented personal products and refrain from smoking when you attend MNA continuing education programs. Page 24 Massachusetts Nurse January/February 2003

You are invited! Come Celebrate “The Evolution of the Nursing Revolution” As MNA Marks its 100-Year Anniversay February 26, 2003

5:00 p.m. Ceremony in Gardner Auditorium at the State House 5:30 p.m. Rally and Celebration at Faneuil Hall 6:30 p.m. Cocktail Reception and Party at Ned Devine’s in the Quincy Market Rotunda

In commemoration of our 100-year anniversary, the MNA is hosting an historic ceremony, rally and celebration for nurses at Faneuil Hall – the site of the founding meeting of MNA in 1903. Join your colleagues to celebrate who we are as we continue our proud mission of nursing and patient advocacy. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of the biggest nursing birthday party of the century! MNA will provide buses to and from the event from a variety of locations, as well as to Faneuil Hall from the State House. Call or email Dolores Neves at 781-830-5722; [email protected] for informa- tion and details. Check the MNA website at www.massnurses.org for updates on the planning for this landmark event.

Directions to the Massachusetts State House* Directions to Fanueil Hall North of Boston: Faneuil Hall is conveniently located within a block of three T-stops: The Green I-93 South to Central Artery. Take Exit 23 at Haymarket. Right at bottom of Line serves Government Center & Haymarket stops. Catch the Blue Line for ramp onto New Chardon St. Keep left through set of lights. Left into Safe access to the Aquarium stop. And to get to the State Street stop, grab the Harbor Garage, 50 New Sudbury St. On foot, turn left out of garage onto New Orange Line. Chardon St. Cross Cambridge St. Walk up Bowdoin St. The back of the State North of Boston: House is straight ahead. I-93 South. Take Logan Airport/Callahan Tunnel/Dock Square Exit 24. Con- South of Boston: tinue straight to Surface Road (Faneuil Hall is on right-hand side). At the third I-93 North to Central Artery. Take Chinatown/Kneeland St. Exit 21. Left onto set of lights take a right onto State St. Take the second left on Broad St., the Kneeland St. Kneeland St. becomes Stuart St. Go through 4 sets of lights. At garage entrance is on the right-hand side. Charles St. South, you must turn right. Follow directions for “West of Boston” South & West of Boston: from Charles St. South. Mass Pike to I-93 North. While in the South Station Tunnel take the Atlantic West of Boston: Avenue/Northern Avenue Exit 22 on the right-hand side. Stay to the left, at Mass. Pike East to the Copley Square/Prudential Center Exit 22. Inside exit the top of the ramp, stay to the right (the Boston Harbor Hotel will be on your tunnel, keep right and follow signs for Copley Square. Outside tunnel, exit right-hand side, it has the large archway shape). Take a left at the second set of merges onto Stuart St. Keeping left, at 5th set of lights, you must turn left onto lights, which will be India St. (India St. is the Broad St. detour). Continue on Charles St. South. Continue through the Boylston St. intersection. Turn right India St. for 4 blocks until the end. Take a left onto State St. Take the next left into The Boston Common Underground Garage. On foot, follow signs in onto Broad St. The garage entrance is immediately on the right-hand side. garage to Beacon St./State House exits. Turn right out of garage onto Beacon St. The State House is on the left at the top of the hill. *To expedite security checkpoint passage at the State House, please refrain from carrying non-essential belongings to the event. All bags will be checked by security upon entry to Entrances are on Bowdoin St. (Handicapped entrance), Mount Vernon St., the State House. Derne St. and the main entrance is on Beacon St.