The union polled nearly 23,000 unionized and nonunionized nurses in all 50 states and four U.S. territories between April 15 and May 10.
Six survey findings:
1. About 84 percent of respondents had not been tested for COVID-19.
2. Of those who underwent testing, more than 500 reported positive test results.
3. A majority (87 percent) said they’ve reused a disposable respirator or mask while treating COVID-19 patients.
4. Seventy-two percent of nurses reported having exposed skin or clothing when caring for COVID-19 patients, which increases their infection risk.
5. About 27 percent of respondents said they’ve cared for COVID-19 patients without wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and worked again within two weeks of that exposure.
6. One-third of nurses said their employer requires them to use sick leave, vacation days or paid time off if they contract COVID-19 or need to self-quarantine.
To view the full survey, click here.
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