The Benefits and Drawbacks of a Nursing Union: Should I Join One?

• Not sure what a nursing union is? Or are you interested in joining one?
• Nursing unions present an opportunity to nurses nationwide to advocate for better wages and safer working conditions; however, it comes with risks.
• Check out Nursing CE Central to learn more about the benefits and potential drawbacks of nursing unions!

As a nurse myself, I wasn’t familiar with what nursing unions were, much less the benefits of working for one.  

With me residing in the southeastern region of the U.S., and most nursing unions being headquartered out west, it is no wonder I had no clue that they existed; but the idea of it intrigues me, and hopefully it does you, too.

So, what is a nursing union, and what are the benefits of working for one? 

What is a Nursing Union?

As a result of the Industrial Revolution, many business owners became interested in only supporting themselves, resulting in unfair, unsafe, and inhumane workplace conditions for employees providing labor; this was no different for nurses.  

Following, nurses soon realized that they must fight for their rights, advocate for better working conditions, and pay wages; hence, a nursing union began.  

What are the Benefits and Downfalls of Nursing Unions?

Nurses want to feel appreciated, respected, and heard.  

Unfortunately, for many, they do not feel any of these things.  

Nursing unions look after the nurse’s best interest by doing things like negotiating contract agreements, strengthening pay wages, and improving working conditions.

Let’s cover some of the benefits of working for a nursing union!  

Benefits 

• Think of it as ‘strength in numbers’ – by negotiating contracts, improving work conditions (i.e. acceptable nursing ratios), and determining standards of care.  
• Allows nurses an opportunity to get involved on a governmental level by lobbying for policies that improve patient care and participating in campaigns.  
• Offers legal support in a court setting. They may even provide a payout if a nurse is incapacitated and cannot work.  
• Offers advice and support on career development and employment matters. 

Downfalls 

• A union can make the decision to go on strike at any time, and if the union goes on strike, you go on strike; which can result in a loss of pay and can negatively impact patient care.  
• Members must pay fees.  
• Collective opinions based on the majority of the group that you may or may not agree with personally.  

So, What’s the Purpose of a Nursing Union?

Just like a union in any other profession, a nursing union is there to advocate and support nurses.  

According to travelnursesource.com, nursing unions protect their rights and provide the employee more rights than the employer. 

So, before joining a nursing union, do your research before deciding if it is right for you.  

You may have better work conditions, support, and pay, but it could also end up costing you your job.

Is it worth it? 

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