We fought for courtesy language in our new contract, and it has become one of the more important issues we fought for. The hospital didn’t want to add this language because they said they didn’t want to “legislate” behavior. However, RNs and all employees deserve the right to be treated in a courteous manner, free from bullying by our supervisors, managers and Charge RNs.
Courtesy
The Union and the employer believe that all people who work or conduct business within the hospital setting should act in a professional and ethical manner.
Likewise, the parties agree to conduct their relationship in a manner that reflects mutual respect and a joint commitment to problem solving, and in any communications they shall focus on the merits of the particular issue in debate, address differences in a positive manner and not engage in personal attacks or make derogatory comments about their respective organizations, affiliates, and leadership.
Real Life Scenarios
- A doctor told an RN to call him back if the patient’s condition deteriorated. She did so and the doctor then refused to talk with her and asked for the Charge RN. As the RN handed the phone to the Charge RN, she overheard the doctor calling her an imbecile for calling him as he had requested.
- An employee was expressing a concern to her manager, and, in response, the manager said, “Don’t say another word. If you say that again, I’m sending you home.”
- An RN was told by her Charge RN — in front of patients, visitors and other employees — “We know you work at (another hospital). Maybe you could do us a favor and stay there.”
With the new courtesy language in our contract, this type of behavior should be grieved. Contact your steward for assistance.