Mary Greeley Receives Magnet Recognition - The 'Gold Standard' for Nursing
AMES, IA – Mary Greeley Medical Center has earned Magnet recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Magnet recognition is considered the gold standard for nursing and the highest honor given by the ANCC. Mary Greeley is one of seven hospitals in Iowa to earn this recognition, and is the only hospital in central Iowa to have it.
“Magnet recognition tells everyone that Mary Greeley Medical Center is a great place to practice nursing,” said Cory Geffre, vice president and chief nursing officer. “If it’s a great place to be a nurse, you know it’s a great place to be a patient.”
The recognition came after a rigorous application and review process, which included a site visit by Magnet Recognition Program evaluators. With emphasis on quality, patient care practices, and performance outcomes, the Magnet Recognition Program measures how an organization involves nursing in leadership and decision-making, and provides nursing staff with tools and training to drive continual improvement and innovation.
“Working closely with providers and other medical center staff, our nurses play central roles in inpatient and outpatient care – not only in day-to-day care, but also in developing and improving the processes we use to deliver care,” said Amy Stark, director of nursing professional practice.
Research indicates that organizations that have received Magnet recognition have lower rates of patient falls, and higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help, and discharge information. Magnet-recognized organizations also have higher levels of job satisfaction.
Mary Greeley employs approximately 500 nurses, more than half have earned their BSN. Studies have shown that organizations with high percentages of BSN-prepared RNs have better patient outcomes.
The Magnet Recognition Program was developed by the ANCC to recognize healthcare organizations that provide nursing excellence. Currently, only 491 of the more than 6,000 U.S. healthcare organizations have received the credential.