National Nurses United

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National Nurses United (NNU) is the largest union of registered nurses in the United States. Founded in 2009, NNU strives to advocate for nurses and patients by seeking to improve health care standards and ensure that healthcare is accessible to all. The organization is known for its activism in the healthcare sector, focusing on issues such as patient care standards, the protection of healthcare workers, and healthcare reform.

History

National Nurses United was formed through the merger of three of the most active nurses' unions: the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (CNA/NNOC), the United American Nurses (UAN), and the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA). This unification was aimed at creating a stronger voice for nurses across the country and to have a significant impact on healthcare policy and practice.

Mission and Goals

The primary mission of NNU is to advocate for the rights of nurses and patients, ensuring safe staffing levels, optimal patient care conditions, and the professional interests of nurses. The organization also focuses on broader social justice issues within the healthcare system, including fighting for a single-payer healthcare system like Medicare for All.

Activities

NNU engages in various activities to promote its goals, including lobbying, organizing strikes and protests, and providing education and training for nurses. The union is known for its aggressive stance on protecting the interests of nurses, particularly in negotiations with hospitals and other healthcare facilities over wages, benefits, and working conditions.

Impact

NNU has been influential in passing legislation related to nurse-to-patient ratios, notably in California, which became the first state to establish minimum nurse-to-patient ratios in hospitals. The organization continues to push for similar laws in other states and at the federal level. NNU's advocacy extends to global health issues, including responses to pandemics and access to healthcare worldwide.

Criticism and Controversy

While NNU's efforts are praised by many in the nursing and healthcare community, the organization has faced criticism from some quarters. Critics argue that the union's tactics, such as strikes, can disrupt patient care. However, NNU maintains that such actions are necessary to advocate for the long-term well-being of both nurses and patients.

Affiliations

NNU is affiliated with several international nursing and labor organizations, reflecting its commitment to global health issues and the rights of workers worldwide. These affiliations allow NNU to collaborate on international campaigns and to support nurses and healthcare workers beyond the United States.

See Also

• Labor unions in the United States
• Healthcare reform in the United States
• Patient safety

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