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Florida nurses rally for safer staffing and workplace conditions
On January 14, registered nurses at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital will gather to voice their demands for safe staffing and a safer workplace. This rally marks the start of negotiations for a new union contract, following their union formation last year, as announced by the National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU).
These dedicated nurses are committed to prioritizing the well-being of their patients and the community. Jeffrey Shidemantle, an ICU nurse, emphasized their united front, stating, “Our primary focus is ensuring safety for our patients and community. We established our union to make management aware of our collective commitment to this goal. Our demands for improved working conditions and enhanced patient care are clear, and we are eager to negotiate a contract that reflects these priorities.”
Background of the nurses’ union
The journey toward unionization began in September 2026. Nurses voted to organize primarily due to persistent concerns regarding patient safety. Chronic understaffing, insufficient break-relief nurses, and inadequate responses from management were critical factors influencing their decision to unite.
Cristine Corona Otero Octtaviani, a nurse in the surgical care unit, expressed her views on the recent developments: “Since we successfully elected our union, we have initiated improvements across the hospital. Our fight for higher standards in patient care and safety for nurses is ongoing, and we believe our collective voice can lead to meaningful change.”
Details of the upcoming rally
The rally is scheduled to be held at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital on January 14, from 8:00 to 8:45 a.m. Registered nurses intend to highlight their cause and seek community support for safer working conditions.
The event specifics are as follows:
- Who:Registered Nurses at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital
- What:Patient Safety Rally
- When:Wednesday, January 14, 8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.
- Where:HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, 1000 Marwalt Dr., Fort Walton Beach, Florida
The role of NNOC/NNU
The National Nurses Organizing Committee represents over 400 registered nurses at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital. As the largest and rapidly expanding union for registered nurses in the United States, National Nurses United (NNU) boasts a membership of more than 225,000 nationwide. Its affiliates include respected organizations such as the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee, DC Nurses Association, Michigan Nurses Association, Minnesota Nurses Association, and New York State Nurses Association.
Through their collective efforts, these nurses advocate for a safe work environment, focusing on critical issues such as safe staffing levels and workplace violence. They believe that unity can lead to significant improvements in both patient care and nursing conditions.
Looking forward
The nurses at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital are gearing up for crucial negotiations aimed at improving safety and care standards. Their rally underscores a determination not only to gain attention but also to cultivate an environment where patients and healthcare professionals can excel.
The forthcoming discussions will play a significant role in determining the future of nursing standards at the facility. The nurses are prepared to raise their voices in advocacy for essential changes that will ensure the safety of all involved.