The nurses' union says county management failed to bargain in good faith around working conditions and safety issues that impact nurses and patient care.

The Registered Nurses Professional Association said 97% of its members – whose contract expired Oct. 29 – voted to authorize a strike if no agreement is reached on union demands for better working conditions, pay raises and improved benefits.

All three hospitals in the Santa Clara County healthcare system received a “C” grade for ensuring patient safety in 2021 and 2022.