As Johns Hopkins nurses, we continually look for ways to advance our practice, innovate care delivery, enhance interdisciplinary collaboration and improve patient outcomes. We are never satisfied with maintaining the status quo. That is why all of our hospitals across the Johns Hopkins Health System are committed to achieving and maintaining Magnet designation—the highest national credential a hospital can attain for professional nursing practice.
Magnet status reflects a hospital’s commitment to providing evidence-based, patient-centered care that improves outcomes and enhances the patient experience. It signals to patients and their families that they can expect the highest standards of care and professionalism when seeking treatment. And it is a recognition of a hospital’s commitment to nursing excellence, empowerment, and growth.
Across the Johns Hopkins Health System, all six of our hospitals are engaged in different stages of their Magnet journeys. Since the beginning of this year, three of our hospitals celebrated Magnet redesignation—Suburban Hospital achieved its second Magnet designation in January, The Johns Hopkins Hospital was designated for a fifth time in March, and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital earned its second designation in April.
“In the end, Magnet is not merely a recognition, but a journey toward continuous improvement and innovation. It is a testament to our nurses’ dedication to delivering the highest standard of care and shaping the future of healthcare.”
Our other three hospitals, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center, and Sibley Memorial Hospital, are all on the path to Magnet designation as well. Bayview and Howard County are expected to submit applications next year, and Sibley recently completed its site visit—the last step in the Magnet designation journey.
Magnet designation is awarded for a four-year period, but often it can take four years or even longer to complete the rigorous application and evaluation process. Hospitals must submit an application and robust written documentation detailing patient care outcomes and examples of nursing programs and initiatives that demonstrate the components of the Magnet model. Next are a multiday on-site evaluation by members of the American Nurses Credentialing Center and a public comment period for patients and staff members to share their experiences and feedback. Our clinical, ambulatory, and advance practice nurses are all included in these efforts.
Less than 10 percent of hospitals nationwide have achieved a Magnet designation, so when the outcome is finally announced, it’s time to celebrate! Bring on the confetti, noise makers, and cake.
In the end, Magnet is not merely a recognition, but a journey toward continuous improvement and innovation. It is a testament to our nurses’ dedication to delivering the highest standard of care and shaping the future of health care. “It’s the not the destination, it’s the journey.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
Deborah J. Baker, DNP, FAAN, AG-ACNP, NEA-BC, is senior vice president for nursing and vice president of nursing and patient care services.