NHS strikes: Patient safety fears could stop nurses joining further coordinated walkouts

Nurses could refuse to carry out any further strikes alongside other health workers because of fears over patient safety, The Independent has learnt.

A mass walkout billed as the largest strike in NHS history is due to take place on Monday as tens of thousands of nurses, paramedics and 999 call handlers walk out in a bid to force ministers to the negotiating table.

But the coordinated strikes could be a one-off if nurses feel that the decision to take part in direct action compromises patient safety, The Independent has been told.