Washington state hospitals and major nursing groups have signed an agreement on patient safety and staffing policies.
The agreement calls for each hospital in the state to work with nurses to develop a staffing plan to improve quality and staff satisfaction.
The parties will also develop a clearinghouse of best practices and examine the role of nurse staffing in medical errors. The agreement was signed by the Washington State Hospital Association, Northwest Organization of Nurse Executives, United Staff Nurses Union Local 141 UFCW, the Washington State Nurses Association and several other unions representing nurses.
Gov. Christine Gregoire, who was present at the signing of the pact, said it is part of her initiative to improve healthcare quality. The governor is seeking legislation to enact the agreement. -- by Rebecca Vesely
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