U.S. nurses ratify contract with enforceable staffing ratios
NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES — In a significant development, nurses at the University Hospital in Newark, represented by HPAE Local 5089, recently ratified a groundbreaking contract that establishes enforceable nurse-to-patient ratios.
This marks a pivotal moment for healthcare standards and working conditions.
Key staffing ratios defined
The contract specifies the following ratios:
- Medical-Surgical Units: 1:6, moving to 1:5 by July 2026
- Pediatrics: 1:5
- Mother/Baby: 1:6 (3 couplets)
- ICUs: 1:2
These ratios are now enforceable, aligning University Hospital with other Level One Trauma Centers in New Jersey.
Broader impact across New Jersey
This contract is part of a wider movement in the state, with other HPAE locals achieving similar agreements at hospitals like Englewood and Hudson Regional.
The establishment of a Staffing Committee at University Hospital will ensure compliance with these new standards.
Wage and benefit improvements
Beyond staffing ratios, the contract introduces a new wage scale tailored to job titles, aiming to attract and retain nursing talent.
It also limits the use of Agency Nurses, providing more growth opportunities for HPAE nurses.
Benefits amid federal mandate challenges
The new contract comes at a crucial time as the U.S. faces challenges related to a federal nursing home staffing mandate. This mandate requires nursing homes to provide 3.48 hours of daily nursing care per patient and maintain a registered nurse on duty 24/7 by 2026.
While some states are contesting this mandate due to staffing shortages, the enforceable ratios at University Hospital could serve as a model for compliance, potentially easing nurses’ transitions into similar roles in nursing homes.
With 63% of U.S. nurses experiencing work overload, these staffing improvements are vital. They not only aim to reduce burnout but also enhance patient care quality by ensuring nurses are not overwhelmed.
Continued advocacy for legislation
HPAE President Debbie White continues to advocate for the “Patient Protection and Safe Staffing Act” (S2700/A3683). This proposed law would mandate safe staffing ratios across New Jersey hospitals. White emphasizes that these staffing wins improve patient care by reducing nurse burnout and enhancing focus.
“Our safe staffing wins benefit patients because we know that limiting the number of patients a nurse can care for at any given time increases the quality of care. Every patient deserves a nurse at the bedside who is not overwhelmed, distracted, and stressed,” White stated.
The ratification of this contract not only benefits nurses but also sets a new standard for patient care in New Jersey. By ensuring manageable workloads, it aims to enhance patient outcomes and reduce staff stress, ultimately saving lives.
