Healthcare workers strike at Toulouse emergency department

An indefinite strike by healthcare workers is ongoing at the Rangueil emergency department in Toulouse. The CGT union is demanding 12 additional positions and better equipment, while the hospital management has announced three nursing hires for the winter and improvements to equipment.

Workload and staffing concerns

A nurse and nursing assistant team may be required to care for up to 30 patients in the adult emergency department at Rangueil. This situation is one of the reasons the CGT gave for starting the strike on October 26, arguing that the current staffing levels are insufficient for the workload.

Staffing discussions and union demands

During talks on October 22, the union requested 12 full-time equivalent positions. The hospital management offered 2.83 state-certified nurses through reallocation but no extra support for nursing assistants. The CGT claims this leaves the department understaffed, especially in the area handling major emergencies.

Hospital’s staffing claims

The Toulouse CHU says the emergency department is fully staffed with no open positions and that absences are covered by the "one for one" rule. Three new nurses will be hired starting November 2 as temporary winter reinforcement, with a review planned for March.

Facility conditions and equipment concerns

The CGT has highlighted poor conditions at the department, including broken stretchers, infested mattresses, and unsafe flooring. The union is also asking for patient call bells, senior doctors’ presence, and better prescription safety. The hospital says it is working on securing the premises and plans to replace some equipment.

Disagreement over resources and dialogue

The management says it wants to have regular, open discussions with the union, but the CGT insists on written and permanent commitments before ending the strike. The main issue remains the number of staff and resources needed to improve the emergency department’s operations.