Members of the California Nurses Association are set to strike Oct. 30 at Keck Hospital of USC and USC Norris Cancer Hospital in Los Angeles.
The union represents more than 1,400 nurses at USC Keck, USC Norris and select clinic locations, according to a statement from the health system. USC Keck and USC Norris are part of Keck Medicine of USC, the University of Southern California’s medical enterprise.
Union members voted to authorize a strike in August. The union and USC Keck and Norris began contract negotiations in May, according to the CNA. Keck Medicine of USC said it has proposed “an increase in resource staff so nurses can more properly rest and recharge during their shifts.”
The union contends that management has been unwilling to provide adequate staffing of resource nurses at the bargaining table — an issue that has led to thousands of missed breaks and meals. “Nurses at both campuses are also fighting for increased rest between shifts, which will allow for higher quality patient care,” a CNA news release reads.
“We remain committed to negotiating in good faith and look forward to collaborative discussions with CNA to reach agreements that are fair, provide competitive pay and benefits, and reflect our dedication and support of our staff,” the health system said.
