May 23, 2003

Countdown to Magnet site visit

In a few weeks, appraisers from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association, will conduct a three-day site visit to the MGH June 10 to 12. The visitors will determine whether to see first-hand why the hospital should be awarded the ANCC's highest nursing honor — Magnet hospital recognition.

Hospitals are deemed "Magnet" because they demonstrate the qualities and abilities required to recruit and retain nurses based on 14 standards established by the ANCC, the nation's largest and foremost nursing accreditation and credentialing organization.

Magnet certification recognizes and rewards health care organizations that provide outstanding care and demonstrate a commitment to quality and safety. This designation positions an organization nationally and locally — only a select few hospitals achieve this recognition. It also allows organizations to market themselves to patients and prospective staff as organizations that provide high-quality care.

Hospitals seeking Magnet recognition submit written evidence supporting their application and undergo a site visit to determine if they meet the standards of care and professional performance.

Listed below are the key characteristics of a Magnet hospital that the appraisers will be evaluating. Some of these characteristics are nursing specific and others are applicable to the greater hospital community.

• Interdisciplinary relationships are key, and there is a sense of mutual respect among all disciplines.
• Professional practice models give nurses responsibility and authority for the care they provide.
• Quality of care is an organizational priority.
• Performance improvement is ongoing, and nurses are involved.
• Quality nursing leadership exists and serves as a strong, knowledgeable advocate for staff.
• An organizational structure is decentralized, with strong representation from nurses.
  
• Management style invites participation and feedback.
  
• Personnel policies and programs are supportive, flexible and competitive.
  
• Expert consultation and resources are available to support caregivers.
  
• Nurses have autonomy, which allows them to use independent professional judgment.
  
• The hospital and community it serves work together to improve health care.
  
• Nurses function as teachers for patients, the public and one another.
  
• Nursing is held in high regard by other members of the health care tea
  
• Professional development is emphasized and supported.