KP-CNA Bargaining Update #5

Today, Kaiser Permanente and the California Nurses Association (CNA) met for the fifth day of contract negotiations.

What happened

Kaiser Permanente presented a proposal that KP may require RNs to wear standard professional attire, which KP would purchase and supply. Our proposal is based on nursing professional standards, as well as successful frontline RN-supported programs such as the one at our San Jose Medical Center.

During last week’s bargaining, CNA began a conversation about nurse training. We agree on the importance of this topic. Today, the union presented a formal proposal on annual skills days. Four RNs on the union’s bargaining team presented suggestions about how skills days might be implemented among the facilities and call centers.

For the record

We want to share our perspective on standard professional attire:

We believe that it recognizes the professionalism of our RNs and helps differentiate RNs from other employees. RNs would be identified quickly and easily, so we would be able to tell immediately who does or does not belong in specific work areas. Patients and families would immediately recognize who our nurses are.

We are disappointed that the union will not be considering this proposal — which focuses on patient safety, enhanced professional image, and improved care experience. We hope the union will reconsider.

What comes next

Bargaining is scheduled to continue Thursday, Aug. 3. We will continue to keep you informed.