Legislation important for patients' safety

Debbie Thompson, RN, Anchorage Daily News, July 1, 2010 House Bill 50 has been transmitted to Governor Parnell for his signature. This bill will require that the nurse taking care of you or your family member is adequately rested and therefore able to detect subtle changes in a patient's condition, to make correct judgments and take the necessary actions needed for safe and effective patient care. This may save your life or the life of someone you love. Nurses who are adequately rested and not subjected to excessive work hours are also less likely to suffer an injury on the job. ... Legislation