PRINCE GEORGE- There was plenty of support for the nurses on the corner of 15th and Edmonton Street Thursday, rallying to highlight ongoing issues in healthcare.
The discussions covered mental health issues and physical safety concerns for nurses. Along with the backlash nurses face for long wait times.
The biggest topic on the table Thursday was the problem of staffing shortages throughout northern health.
The nurse’s union described the healthcare system as one in crisis. There are as many as 5000 unfilled nursing positions throughout the province, but steps are being taken.
In April, British Columbia became the first province to set patient ratios for nurses. This means in the worst-case scenario, one nurse will only have to deal with five patients at a time, Which the BCNU says will create a safer and healthier work environment for everyone involved.
“It’s important that we give our members some hope,” said Adriane Gear, the vice president of the BCNU. “We are banking on ratios, so the government better deliver. They better keep the promise.”
