Most of Former Hospital Nurse’s Discrimination Suit Dismissed by Judge

A lawsuit filed by a former nurse at PIH Health Whittier Hospital alleging discrimination and wrongful termination due to religious objections to COVID-19 testing has had most of its causes dismissed by a judge. The judge stated that although the nurse may have shown a basic discrimination case, the hospital was able to demonstrate that its actions were justified and non-discriminatory. The nurse’s claim to protected activity involving religious freedom as a significant reason for retaliation will proceed to trial. The judge also ruled that the nurse is entitled to pursue her claim for failure to inspect personnel and payroll records. However, punitive damages were denied as there is insufficient evidence of wrongful conduct. The hospital’s attorneys argued that they made efforts to accommodate the nurse’s refusal to test for COVID-19. According to the nurse, her religious beliefs led her to oppose the testing, and she requested a religious accommodation that was not granted. The nurse claims that the hospital’s vaccine mandate created a hostile environment, causing her health issues. The nurse maintains that she was terminated by the hospital and did not resign. The hospital offered the opportunity to work remotely without the need for testing, but the nurse declined the offer.