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Mankato Nurses OK Contract, Avert Strike

MANKATO, Minn. (AP) — Nurses at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato have overwhelmingly ratified a new contract, averting a possible strike.

Exact numbers weren't available Thursday evening, but a union negotiator tells The Free Press that turnout was high.

Staffing was a key sticking point. Nurses wanted the hospital to add staff and wanted more input into how patients are assessed to determine their nursing needs.

Mayo Clinic Health System says the hospital is pleased that the agreement was reached.

Minnesota Public Radio News reports the three-year contract was reached after five months of negotiations.

The contract covers 470 members of the Minnesota Nurses Association.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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