The Magnet Recognition Program affords important national recognition to healthcare organizations that demonstrate sustained excellence in nursing care. This prestigious program is administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the nation’s largest and foremost nursing accrediting and credentialing organization.

The magnet award is the highest award a hospital can receive for outstanding achievement in nursing services that highlights a commitment to excellence. First awarded in 1995, it is a voluntary form of external, professional nurse peer review which recognizes facilities that provide the very best in nursing care.

Whether a healthcare organization is large or small, rural or urban, magnet designation serves as a “magnet” to attract a reputation that is among the finest in the nation. Organizations that have chosen to pursue magnet designation report the same benefits for patients, nurses, and healthcare facilities.

After completing this activity, the participant should be able to:

• identify the two types of magnet standards.
• explain the phases of the magnet designation process.
• discuss the impact of magnet designation for professional nursing.
• identify the key benefits for pursuing magnet designation.
• discuss the history and purpose of the magnet designation program.