May 16, 2003

MGH awaits Magnet hospital recognition site visit

Members of the MGH community have been busy preparing for the upcoming three-day site visit to determine if the hospital should be awarded a Magnet hospital certification — one of the highest honors given to hospitals in recognition for their exceptional nursing services. From June 10 to 12, appraisers from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association, will evaluate the MGH for Magnet status based on 14 standards of nursing care and professional performance.

What is a Magnet-designated hospital? During a severe nursing shortage in the 1980s, research was conducted to determine characteristics of hospitals that were able to keep nurses despite the shortage. Because of their ability to attract and retain nurses, these organizations were called "Magnet" hospitals. This prestigious designation has evolved to recognize nursing services that affect high-quality clinical outcomes for patients.

More than 20 years of research shows that Magnet hospitals have lower patient mortality, fewer medical complications, improved patient and employee safety, higher patient and staff satisfaction scores and shorter hospitalization stays. Magnet status also provides consumers with information to help determine where to seek care. For experienced nurses, Magnet recognition can be a guide to choosing an employer, and nursing schools now are informing students about the advantages of working at a Magnet hospital.

Brian French, RN, presents at a Magent forum.

There currently are 69 Magnet hospitals nationwide — none in Massachusetts. Some of the characteristics that the appraisers look for in a potential Magnet hospital include a culture where concern for the patient is paramount; strong nursing and hospital leadership; autonomy for nurses; collaborative relationships among all members of the health care team; support for professional development; flexible and appropriate staffing; and ongoing interdisciplinary performance improvement initiatives.

During the site visit to the MGH, the appraisers will meet with senior hospital leadership, trustees, nurses, physicians and community leaders to hear different perspectives about nursing practice at the MGH. They also will attend various meetings and forums to learn more details about the quality of care provided. Nurses from nearly every patient care unit will have an opportunity to interact with the appraisers throughout the site visit.

Appraisers may stop and speak with any member of the MGH community to find out how their department works in collaboration with the nursing staff.

"This is an exciting opportunity to showcase the excellent care given at the MGH and the wonderful team that makes that care possible," says Jeanette Ives Erickson, RN, MS, senior vice president for Patient Care Services and chief nurse.

After conducting the site visit and reviewing written documentation, the appraisers will submit a report to the ANCC's Commission on the Magnet Recognition Program. The final decision will be made after the commission reviews the MGH report at its next meeting in early fall.