Over 1000 Ramsay nurses and midwives feel that the staffing in their ward, unit or theatre does not allow them to provide the quality care their patients need, according to NSWNMA survey results.

73 per cent of over 1400 Ramsay nurses and midwives who participated in a NSWNMA survey said that staffing numbers were inadequate to deliver the quality care that patients need.

‘The greatest challenge is skill mix and short staffing. Management’s solution is to expect more from nurses. Equally, if the patient numbers slightly drop, they cut a nurse which means we don’t even get breaks and we leave late. My concern is that compromises patient care,” said one nurse.

“Burning out nurses who are giving 110 per cent every day, who are not supported and are expected to work in conditions that put patient safety second and the budget first is not smart,” said another.

Other comments on staffing included:

“Something needs to be done, Ramsay keeps cutting absolutely everything. It’s becoming dangerous for everyone.”

“We seem to have less staff with more patients and patients having higher needs.”

“Shifts are changed without staff agreeing.”

Nurses and midwives also felt strongly about having to work through meal breaks.

“Staff often don’t take a proper lunch or morning break. They mostly eat while they are writing notes or working in the staff/doctors room. This is considered normal,” said one.

Rosters were also a contentious issue.

“Rosters are not available in advance. They are often out on a Thursday for the following week so you are unable to plan social events.”

Ramsay Enterprise Agreement pay and conditions claims at a glance

• Safe staffing standards for quality patient care
• Four per cent pay rise per annum
• Maintain and protect current wages and conditions in an agreement that applies to all NSW hospitals
• Tightening of agreement language to ensure Ramsay honour all nurses and midwives’ agreed entitlements and include examples of how it works
• Valuing nurses and midwives through better pay and conditions
• Guaranteeing nurses and midwives’ work/life balance
• Guaranteeing Nurses and Midwives’ Health and Safety
• Guaranteeing and Recognising Nurses and Midwives’ Professional Education, Skills and Experience
• Valuing Nurses and Midwives’ Clinical Leadership and Support
• Getting nurses and midwives’ pay right using MyTime

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