A Magnet Hospital

Inspired by the belief that its nurses are a shining example of nursing excellence, Reston Hospital Center saw the value in the Magnet Recognition Program. This recognition, awarded to RHC in 2007, by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is a national recognition available for excellent nursing practice in hospitals. It acknowledges health care organizations that provide the very best in nursing care and professional nursing practice.

"Our nurses are clinically strong. They're respected by their colleagues, physicians and their patients," says Cindy Glover, RN, chief nursing officer for Reston Hospital Center. "Becoming a Magnet Hospital was a visible demonstration of our commitment to quality patient care and nursing excellence."

The Magnet Recognition Program is based on quality indicators and standards of practice defined by the American Nurses Association (ANA). It provides consumers with the ultimate benchmark for the quality of care they can expect to receive.

To reach Magnet status, hospitals apply to the ANCC, prepare and submit documentation supporting compliance with 65 ANA standards, and go through an onsite evaluation. Once the status is achieved, healthcare organizations have to reapply every four years.

"Achieving this status was definitely hard work," acknowledges Ms. Glover. "It only served to improve care and reinforce that Reston Hospital is a great place to work."

The benefits of Magnet-designation includes:

• Recognizes the importance of all employees
• Is a major factor in nursing recruitment and retention
• Offers a competitive advantage
• Enhances nursing care
• Increases staff morale
• Attracts high quality physicians
• Reinforces positive collaborative relationships, and
• Improves patient quality.

Just 5% of hospitals nationwide are Magnet.  Reston Hospital Center is proud to be among them.

"The Northern Virginia community is well educated and discriminating about its healthcare choices," notes Ms. Glover. "Magnet status gives community a benchmark that will help them when selecting a healthcare provider."

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