The approximately 1,200 nurses, who are represented by the Illinois Nurses Association, plan to strike Sept. 13.
Both sides have been in negotiations for months, with one key sticking point being wages, according to the report. For instance, INA Executive Director Alice Johnson told Chicago Tribune nurses seek 3 percent annual cost of living increases, while the hospital has proposed a $500 cash bonus the first year of the contract with 1 percent annual increases in the remaining two years.
Hospital officials said in a statement obtained by Chicago Tribune the organization is “taking steps to prepare for a potential work stoppage to ensure our patients’ continued care and safety.” However, a hospital spokesperson did not immediately provide the publication with more details.
The report notes both sides are expected to return to the bargaining table this week.
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