'Big M' or 'little M': about the journey to excellence

MedSurg Nursing, April, 2005 by Dottie Roberts

Magnet designation has become a highly sought-after honor in health care in recent years. The size, setting, or location of the health care organization makes no difference--Magnet facilities have a proven level of excellence in nursing care. Information about an organization's attainment of Magnet designation is now often used, at least in part, by new graduate nurses to help them determine where to get that important first job. It is also used by consumers who want reassurance that they are getting the best possible care when they need nursing services. In my conversations with people around the country, I find it's a rare organization that hasn't already achieved Magnet designation or is actively moving through the application process. Everyone wants to be known as one of the best.

As the authors of the articles in this supplement describe, the Magnet Recognition Program[TM] was developed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to recognize health care organizations as centers of nursing excellence. As I've tried to explain this movement to staff nurses, I've told them, "It's all about you." Accrediting and regulatory bodies are interested in the whole health care organization, but Magnet designation is specifically about us; about the way our professional nursing practice is supported by our organizations, and about the way we are challenged to provide the best possible patient care.

Every Day Magnetism

My own organization's journey has first involved achieving the "little m" by living the philosophy of magnetism every day. It's so easy for nurses to abdicate ownership of their practice, to just clock 8 or 12 hours of work and leave for home. Principles of magnetism challenge us to accept new accountability--to practice in a way that allows us to relate personally to each of our patients and colleagues, and to rediscover the wonder of professional development. I'm now seeing nurses with renewed enthusiasm for learning; they're going back to school or pursuing continuing education, all to ensure that they are better able to care for their patients. And that enthusiasm is contagious. One person begins talking about a conference or a certification exam, and soon many are showing interest. They've been attracted to the magnetism of excellence.

The next step can of course be achieving the "Big M" of Magnet designation. The journey requires a great deal of introspection on the part of an organization's nursing leaders, and a willingness to take risks in sharing more responsibility with staff and middle managers. But the rewards! Staff who've taken part in the re-creation of their practice environment are more likely to stay, to continue to invest themselves in the success of the organization and in the goal of exceptional patient outcomes. ANCC rightly recognizes one benefit of Magnet designation as creation of a positive "halo" effect: excellent nursing care attracts excellent physicians. The entire health care team is magnetized.

This supplement was designed to inform readers of the benefits of Magnet designation, and to celebrate those health care facilities who have already earned it. I hope it will stimulate you all to continue your own personal journey toward excellence as well.