Elite Nursing Designation Reaffirmed at Kootenai Health In Spite of Pandemic
Today the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) granted Kootenai Health Magnet® recognition for the fourth consecutive time. Only 563 hospitals have achieved Magnet recognition world-wide, and even fewer – just 137, or about 24% – have achieved Magnet four or more times. Kootenai has held Magnet status since 2006 and is one of only two Magnet hospitals in the state of Idaho. Magnet designation is the highest and most prestigious international distinction a health care organization can receive for nursing excellence.
The Magnet Recognition Program® recognizes health care organizations for quality patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional nursing practice. To be recognized as a Magnet hospital, health care organizations must pass a rigorous and lengthy review process demanding widespread participation from leadership and staff.
“I am incredibly proud of our nursing staff and the entire health care team that made this achievement possible,” said Kootenai Health Chief Nursing Officer, Joan Simon. “Magnet® is the highest honor in nursing. This recognizes nurses for the exemplary outcomes of care delivered each day here at Kootenai Health.”
“This re-designation is particularly well deserved. Our nurses have remained vigilant throughout the pandemic. They ensured exemplary care endured despite the challenges, which is a truly amazing achievement! Without a doubt, our positive culture defined by the engagement and empowerment of nurses was the catalyst to ensuring the delivery of safe, high-quality care resulting in this prestigious award.”
Magnet recognition has been shown to provide specific benefits to hospitals and their communities, such as higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help, receipt of discharge information and higher job satisfaction among nurses.
“We are honored and excited to receive Magnet status,” said Kootenai Health CEO, Jon Ness. “This achievement is a validation of the professionalism, teamwork, and compassionate patient care Kootenai Health is known for.”
In order to retain Magnet status, organizations must reapply every four years. The process includes the submission of an electronic application, followed by written documentation and evidence regarding patient care and outcomes. Following the documentation review, qualifying organizations must undergo an intensive site review by Magnet surveyors.
