Circulating on social media this week is an apparent memo written by a UPMC employee.
In it healthcare workers were reportedly asked to be prepared to take care of extra patients during poor staffing situations and says if staff refuse the nurses may be required to speak with HR.
We spoke with another nurse about her reaction to the letter, and she tells us that it’s unsafe for healthcare workers to have too many patients. At one time.
“We are struggling, we put on a good face and take the best care of your patients in the time you’re given, but when you know there’s no help coming, it’s hard .”
In a statement from UPMC regarding this apparent UPMC employee memo they say
“Delivering safe, quality patient care is always our highest priority. The sentiments expressed in the social media posting are an excerpt of content written by an employee reflective of their own opinions. We always encourage staff”
“To escalate any quality or safety concerns and no nurse would ever face disciplinary action for raising any related concerns. As such, a team member would never be sent to HR for raising patient safety issues. As one of the busiest”
“Hospitals in the region, and as with all UPMC hospitals, staffing is continually evaluated to ensure safety. Evidenced by our “A” “Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade” announced today for UPMC Altoona,
“The health and safety of our patients is at the center of everything we do.”
