UVM Medical Center revamps sitter policy, sparking staff safety concerns and union pushback

UVM Medical Center rolled out a revised observation policy in June that bars licensed nursing assistants from acting as clinical patient safety attendants, instead relying on a limited pool of 17 CPSAs per shift, remote video monitors, and specially assigned observation staff. Front-line workers, including LNA Saer McCliment and Brett Rhodes, argue the new system fails to protect patients prone to falls, wandering, or self-harm, citing several incidents where safety was compromised.

On August 20, two unions representing hospital staff delivered a cease-and-desist request to halt the changes, noting the policy interferes with ongoing contract talks and leaves units understaffed. Hospital spokesperson Annie Mackin emphasized that patient safety remains paramount and that the adjustments aim to allocate resources efficiently amid sweeping expense cuts. The UVM Health network forecasts a $43 million operating loss and over $14 million system-wide deficit, prompting $140 million in planned cuts. Critics warn that reduced in-person sitters could lead to over-sedation in intensive care and heightened risk for vulnerable patients.