Traveling Nurses

I read “Traveling Nurses Give Temporary Medical Relief” (July 7) with great interest. As a staff registered nurse, I’ve worked extensively with travelers and, contrary to the California Nurses Assn.’s assessment, have found our travelers to be committed, skilled and an asset to the profession. The nature of their work demands that they be adaptable, quick to learn and resourceful; because of their varied experience they often bring innovative ideas to the workplace and suffer less from the burnout that afflicts many staff nurses.

Shame on the CNA for characterizing travelers as a burden to regular staff RNs and as “scabs.” Perhaps if more travelers were dues-paying members, the CNA wouldn’t be so quick to denigrate their skills and contributions to professional nursing.

Diana Armas RN

San Pedro