Nurses are reacting to news that East Liverpool City Hospital is closing several units, including the obstetrics and pediatric units.

The Ohio Nurses Association tells 21 News that it was contacted on Tuesday regarding the Hospital’s intended closures happening as soon as August 5th. The medical-surgical units, along with the hospital’s 5th floor will be the first to cease operations. The OB and pediatrics units will follow, with an anticipated closure of August 31st.

“These are important community services that the hospital is just giving up on. It’s so imperative to have a local hospital to have units, such as OB and pediatrics, for the locals who are unable to travel outside the city." said ONA Labor Relations Specialist Christopher Moses.  "Those people rely on the services provided by ELCH. Now where are they to go?” asked Moses.

The unit closures also means approximately 30 nurses and a number other healthcare workers will be left unemployed.

The ONA is going to meet with the Hospital August 4th about the layoffs.

"These nurses have fought for fair working conditions and for their patient’s safety, and they will continue to do so once negotiations resume August 12th. This latest announcement from the Hospital will not deter them from doing so,” said Moses.