Registered nurses at Pacifica Hospital of the Valley in Sun Valley, Calif., plan to strike beginning March 5 and ending March 15.
The nurses, who are represented by Service Employees International Union Local 121RN, announced the strike Feb. 21.
"The decision to strike is never easy for a nurse. Staying away from our hospitals is difficult. But that is just how committed these nurses are to prioritizing patient and nurse safety," said Gayle Batiste, RN, president of the union local, who works at Dignity Health-Northridge (Calif.) Hospital Medical Center.
Union officials said nurses have tried to preserve patient services during labor negotiations. but they have seen hospital services decline over the decades, including last year's closure of the hospital's labor and delivery department.
The hospital maintains it has offered "highly competitive" health and welfare benefits, market-aligned pay increases and safe staffing.
"Our communities depend on us for continued service, and we are taking every step necessary to fulfill that obligation," said Eric Rose, a hospital spokesperson. "But our primary goal is to reach a contract that is fair to everyone, which is why we're disappointed by the recent 10-day notice of a 10-day labor strike, which makes it very difficult on patients."
Mr. Rose said hospital officials are confident that a new, fair contract can be reached, but are prepared for a strike.
"Some procedures may be moved from early next week to later next week, and some are being moved into the following week. While it is disappointing that this is happening, will take the necessary steps to ensure that the hospital is properly staffed," he said.
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