N.S. Nurses’ Union calls for review of severe weather emergency preparedness plans

HALIFAX, N.S. — In the aftermath of last weekend’s major winter storm, the Nova Scotia Nurses’ Union (NSNU) is calling for a revision of the current extreme weather emergency working plan in health organizations

While not the first time that nurses have experienced working through severe weather, union president Janet Hazelton said more can be done to assist health-care providers who get stranded at work or who are unable to get to work.

“Our members in Cape Breton, Pictou and elsewhere who risked the roads are dedicated nurses. Few complain when they don’t get home for days on end,” said Hazelton. “Getting nurses safely to and from the workplace is a high priority.”

Despite the poor weather conditions, Hazelton is hoping the storm will prompt a collaborative discussion for better solutions, so both patients and workers feel better supported in harsh weather events.

“I want to thank the many nurses who braved the weather to get to their patients in the community, in hospitals and nursing homes across the province,” said Hazelton. “I’m thankful to them, but I also don’t want them working 72-hour shifts.”