What is Magnet Designation?

In the early 1980’s the term “Magnet” was developed by the American Academy of Nursing to describe hospitals that could attract and retain nurses, An initial study of 163 hospitals found that 41 of those hospitals possessed similar qualities that enabled greater capacity to attract and retain nurses, during a nursing shortage because of the quality of the nurse work environment.  The similar characteristics that distinguished these organizations from others are known to this day as the "14 Forces of Magnetism." These 14 Forces have been organized into 5 Model Components; Transformational Leadership, Structural Empowerment, Exemplary Professional Practice, New Knowledge, Innovations and Improvements and Empirical Outcomes.

The Magnet Recognition Program recognizes health-care organizations for quality patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional nursing practice.

The Magnet Recognition Program was developed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), based primarily on the research conducted by the American Academy of Nursing, to recognize healthcare organizations that provide nursing excellence. The Magnet Recognition Program recognizes health-care organizations for quality patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional nursing practice. Consumers rely on Magnet designation as the ultimate credential for high quality nursing. Achieving Magnet status is the highest level of honor awarded by the ANCC and is recognized nationally as the “gold standard” of nursing excellence.

To achieve Magnet Recognition, we must pass a rigorous and lengthy process that demands widespread participation from staff. The process begins with an application, followed by written documentation demonstrating qualitative and quantitative evidence regarding patient care and outcomes. If scores from the written documentation fall within a range of excellence, an on-site visit will occur to thoroughly assess our organization. After this rigorous on-site review process, the Commission on Magnet will review the completed appraisal report and vote to determine whether Magnet recognition will be granted.