MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center has attained Magnet recognition for the fifth consecutive cycle. The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program® distinguishes health care organizations that meet rigorous standards for nursing excellence.
This credential is the highest national honor for professional nursing practice. Health care organizations must reapply for Magnet recognition every four years based on adherence to Magnet concepts and demonstrated improvements in patient care and quality. Less than 1% of hospitals in the United States have achieved a fifth Magnet recognition.
“MercyOne Dubuque is well known for our excellent nursing care and our highest quality standards across the entire organization. Receiving the call from the ANCC Commission on Magnet and the news we have been designated for a 5th consecutive cycle, going back to 2004, is a well-deserved honor for our extraordinary team,” said Kay Takes, MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center president.
“In the very elite company of hospitals with five Magnet designations, we are very proud to provide the best-of-the-best care and service to our patients, families and communities in the region.”
Magnet recognition is the gold standard for nursing excellence and is a factor when the public judge’s health care organizations. U.S. News & World Report’s annual “America’s Best Hospitals” showcase includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality inpatient care.
“Achieving our 5th Magnet certification is a testament to our patients’ trust in us and highlights our team’s dedication to the highest standards of nursing and health care. It reflects the hard work of our entire team, ensuring we continue to deliver the compassionate, top-tier care MercyOne Dubuque is known for,” said Robert Wethal, MercyOne Dubuque VP of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer.
Research demonstrates that Magnet recognition provides specific benefits to health care organizations and their communities, such as:
• Higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help and receipt of discharge information.
• Lower risk of 30-day mortality and lower failure to rescue rates.
• Higher job satisfaction among nurses.
• Lower nurse reports of intentions to leave their positions.
The Magnet Model provides a framework for nursing practice, research, and measurement of outcomes. ANCC evaluates applicants across several components and dimensions through this framework to gauge an organization’s nursing excellence.
The foundation of this model comprises various elements deemed essential to delivering superior patient care. These include the quality of nursing leadership, coordination and collaboration across specialties, and processes for measuring and improving the quality and delivery of care.
To achieve Magnet recognition, organizations must pass a rigorous and lengthy process that demands widespread participation from leadership and staff. This process includes an electronic application, written patient care documentation, an on-site visit, and the Commission on Magnet Recognition review.
