TUCKER, GA – Emory University Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital has achieved its third Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for its continued dedication to nursing excellence. The specialty hospital was also awarded Magnet with Distinction, its first such designation recognizing the highest performing Magnet organizations around the world.
Emory University Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital, comprised of 120 licensed beds with a focus on major joint replacement, minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery, spinal fusion and more, is one of eight Magnet facilities within the Emory Healthcare system, and one of 16 in Georgia. Approximately 10.6% of U.S. health care organizations have achieved Magnet recognition.
Less than 100 hospitals around the world have been awarded Magnet with Distinction, and Emory University Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital is the third Emory Healthcare hospital to achieve this newest recognition.
“This latest Magnet designation, and first Magnet with Distinction recognition, highlights the amazing work of our interprofessional teams across all disciplines,” says Robert Boesch, DNP, RN, CENP, FAONL, chief nursing officer for Emory University Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital and Emory University Hospital. “The exceptional nurses within Emory Healthcare are the living embodiment of the science, art and compassion in care delivery for which our organization strives. The Magnet with Distinction recognition serves as a representation for why patients choose Emory Healthcare.”
A room full of Emory Healthcare nurses listened intently during a recent virtual call with an ANCC representative, as they learned about the latest Magnet designation. Emory Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital was highlighted for its innovation, empowered nursing staff and exemplary professional practice through 16 exemplars or standards of excellence. Some of the areas recognized included:
• Achieved 83.5% of professional registered nurses (RNs) earning a baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing
• Outperformed the benchmark for RN satisfaction and engagement on 80% of its inpatient units
• Outperformed the benchmark for hospital-acquired pressure injuries and catheter-associated urinary tract infections on 100% of its inpatient units
• Outperformed the benchmark on care coordination, patient education and engagement and safety on 100% of its inpatient units
• Outperformed the benchmark for fall prevention, care coordination, pain management and patient education in the outpatient setting by 100%
Magnet recognition is a gold standard for nursing excellence and is often a factor when the public evaluates health care organizations. U.S. News & World Report’s annual issue of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality of inpatient care.
“While Magnet recognition is centered around our nursing staff and leaders, we know it takes all disciplines, including physicians, respiratory, occupational and physical therapists, radiology technicians and many more to put forth a deep, continuous effort to achieve this designation for our patients,” says Sharon Pappas, PhD, RN, FAAN, chief nurse executive for Emory Healthcare. “Emory University Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital also incorporates patients and family members into the shared governance committees to fully hear the voices of those they serve – to build greater patient satisfaction around the nursing model.”
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
To achieve Magnet recognition, organizations must pass a rigorous and lengthy process that encourages widespread participation from leadership and staff in demonstrating how Magnet program standards are met. This process includes an electronic application, written documentation an on-site visit and review by the Commission on Magnet Recognition.
Healthcare facilities must reapply for Magnet recognition every four years based on adherence to Magnet concepts and demonstrated improvements in patient care and quality.
