Nurses and staff rallied outside of a Yonkers hospital to demand more staff and
assistance for patients.
News 12 is told nurses have seen an increase in
patience violence against them, while staffing has steadily declined in recent
months.
Employees in the mental health unit say only two nurses are
assigned for every 30 patients – putting them in great danger.
“If I have an emergency, if I’m sick, if
something’s wrong, if I fight with another patient on this floor, who’s going
to defend me?” asked Anita Kukaj, of the St. Joseph’s
Medical Emergency Room.
Kukaj further went on to allege that the
patients are aware and know there aren’t enough nurses on duty to assist if
needed.
According to some nurses, hospital CEO Mike Spicer was rude, demeaning
and dismissive in a meeting. He also allegedly proceeded to call
security on them after five
minutes.
News 12 reached out to St. Joseph’s Medical Center
representatives for comment and they responded by saying, “Saint Joseph’s Medical Center’s number one priority is providing a safe environment for our patients and staff and we take every measure to ensure that we provide a safe environment and appropriate staffing levels. In preparation of the surge of COVID-19, we are proud to say that we have in excess of the 90 day requirement of PPE supplies. Again, the care and safety of our patients and our staff is our top priority.”