Letter: Legislation would put patients first by aiding nurses

National Nurses Week, observed May 6-12, is the time each year when the nation recognizes the importance of nurses in the lives of patients and their families. Administrators, hospitals and other elements of health care will recognize nurses with candy, flowers and gifts. While we appreciate the recognition, that is not what nurses and patients really need most.

In this new era of managed care, cutbacks in staffing are making it hard for nurses to give our patients the time and attention they deserve. Nurse members of the Nevada Service Employees Union, SEIU Local 1107, are working to pass legislation to ensure proper nurse-to-patient ratios and high quality care in the Quality of Care Act of 1999 -- Assembly Bill 586.

Patients and their families depend on nurses. Nevada lawmakers need to act now to make sure the needs of patients come first. That would be a gift to cherish this Nurses Week.

VICKY J. HEDDERMAN

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