Question

A hospital is seeking a 2.5% wage reduction for all nurses as part of a new balanced budget plan; however, the plan provides for raises for upper-level management. This plan resulted in a call for a union to protect the nurses. When the union representative arrives, what questions should the nurses ask? (select all that apply)

a. Will the dues be used to support charity care when clients are unable to pay?
b. How effective has the union been in representing nurses' best interest?
c. What percent of dues pays union personnel salaries?
d. Are dues used to promote research for terminally ill clients?
e. If arbitration is unsuccessful and a strike occurs, will nurses receive compensation during the strike?

Answer 1

Nurses facing a potential wage cut should engage with a union representative to ensure their interests are effectively represented. Important questions include the union's effectiveness, the percentage of dues used for personnel salaries, and whether there is compensation in the event of a strike. Option c.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a union representative arrives at a hospital where a 2.5% wage reduction for nurses is proposed, but raises for upper-level management are included in the budget plan, nurses should ask questions to ensure their interests will be effectively represented. Appropriate questions include:

• How effective has the union been in representing nurses' best interest? - This question is crucial to understand the union's track record and capability in similar situations.
• What percent of dues pays union personnel salaries? - This question helps clarify how much of the union dues are allocated to administrative costs versus member representation and services.
• If arbitration is unsuccessful and a strike occurs, will nurses receive compensation during the strike? - Financial support during a strike is important information for nurses to have, ensuring they are aware of the economic implications of potential union actions.

Asking these questions can provide transparency regarding union operations and offer a clearer view of how the union may be able to protect the nurses' wages and rights in the face of the hospital's demands.