RN Kaylie Gilbert, "Ultimately, forming a nurses union is about safeguarding the integrity of our profession and the wellbeing of the people we serve."

As a nurse deeply committed to patient care, I’ve come to realize that one of the most powerful ways we can advocate for both our patients and ourselves is by organizing. The idea of starting a nurses union isn’t about division—it’s about solidarity, empowerment, and a shared commitment to the highest standards of care. Unions give nurses a collective voice, ensuring that we’re not just heard, but truly listened to, when it comes to decisions that affect our patients’ health and our ability to do our jobs effectively.

Evidence consistently shows that unionized healthcare environments lead to better patient outcomes. A 2021 study published in Health Affairs found that hospitals with unionized registered nurses had a 5.5% lower patient mortality rate compared to nonunionized hospitals. Furthermore, research from the Economic Policy Institute highlights how unionized nurses are more likely to report unsafe staffing conditions, which helps prevent errors and improves safety. Simply put, when nurses have the protection and backing of a union, they are more empowered to advocate for necessary staffing levels, safer working conditions, and evidence-based practices—all of which directly benefit patients.

In addition to improved patient care, unionization fosters better retention and reduces burnout, two critical challenges in today’s healthcare landscape. The American Nurses Association has long emphasized that professional autonomy and a sense of control over practice are key to job satisfaction. A union provides a structure through which we can negotiate for manageable workloads, fair wages, and respectful treatment. These improvements don’t just make our jobs more sustainable—they help keep experienced nurses at the bedside, where we are needed most.

Ultimately, forming a nurses union is about safeguarding the integrity of our profession and the wellbeing of the people we serve. It’s about creating an environment where nurses can thrive, grow, and lead, knowing that our voices matter. With a union, we can move forward together—stronger, safer, and more united in our mission to provide compassionate, high-quality care.