If you want to work at a Magnet hospital, here are points to consider before making a move.
What is a Magnet Hospital?
Magnet status is awarded to hospitals as a recognition of excellence in nursing. Hospitals are evaluated on several criteria.
- Leadership that works to make sure that the organization is structured to lead the future of medicine
- An organizational structure that empowers staff to grow and improve practice
- Quality nursing staff and excellent professional practices, including communication between members of the medical team
- Staff access to up-to-date knowledge and options for the implementation of new technologies
- Excellence in patient outcomes and high standards of care
Hospitals spend millions of dollars during the application process to achieve Magnet status. The benefits to the hospital include decreased costs related to hiring and training staff and potentially increased revenues. In addition, studies have shown that Magnet hospitals have improved mortality and other care markers, so patient benefits include better outcomes and higher quality, safer care. For staff, working in a Magnet hospital means higher job satisfaction, less potential burnout, and increased professional development.
Why Work at a Magnet Hospital?
Nurses and other healthcare professionals choose healthcare as their career for caring for people and a love for lifelong learning. So you can see how Magnet status might appeal to nurses. Who wouldn’t want a job that empowers you to improve outcomes while having high job satisfaction and retention?
Questions to ask before accepting a job:
- Who is the chief nursing officer, and do they have authority over staffing?
- How do staffing ratios compare to national recommendations? How much input does the nursing staff have in staffing?
- How often do nurses float to other units?
- Does the organization mandate overtime? Can the nurses refuse to participate without repercussions?
- How are time-off requests and holiday scheduling handled?
- What does the staffing look like for support staff?
- What are the opportunities for advancement within the organization?
- How long has the hospital been awarded Magnet status? What ongoing efforts are they making to maintain their status?
- How long has the Magnet coordinator been with the organization (frequent turnover in this position may be a sign that the hospital isn’t committed to the principles of the Magnet program)?
- How does the organization handle conflict? If I have concerns, what is the process for voicing them?
- How is the communication between nursing staff and administration? What about nursing staff and doctors?
- What resources are available for ongoing clinical education? For example, can I get tuition reimbursement if I choose to get an advanced degree? What is the process for quality improvement in the organization?
- What is the culture of the organization?
Nursing is fun and rewarding, but burnout in healthcare is at an all-time high, especially during the recent global health crisis. Finding a job with the right culture will help ensure your nursing career is long and enjoyable.
Where Do You Find Magnet Hospitals?
Are you looking for your next career opportunity at a Magnet hospital? Check out our Magnet showcase. Then, your next job can be waiting for you!
We’ll be at the 2022 ANCC National Magnet Conference® October 13-15 at the Philadelphia Convention Center in Philadelphia, PA. Stop by booth 2018. We look forward to seeing you there!
