Christiana Care first in Delaware to achieve Magnet nursing excellence
On June 24, Magnet® recognition for excellence in nursing from the American Nursing Credentialing Center (ANCC) was formally bestowed on Christiana Care Health System.
The highest level of national recognition to health care organizations that demonstrate sustained excellence in nursing care, only 6 percent of the nation’s hospitals have earned this honor. Christiana Care is the only hospital in Delaware to achieve Magnet status.
Karen Drenkard, RN, Ph.D., director of ANCC’s Magnet Recognition Program, presented the obelisk shaped award at a celebration in the John H. Ammon Medical Education Center attended by several hundred employees, including Christiana Care president and CEO Robert J. Laskowski, M.D., and Christiana Care Board Chair Carol Ammon.
“It is a great honor to receive such prestigious national recognition and a testament to the extraordinary nurses and our entire health care team who work together every day to provide the very best care to our patients,” says Dr. Laskowski.
The Magnet Recognition Program® honors health care organizations that demonstrate excellence in nursing practice and adherence to national standards for the organization and delivery of nursing services. Applicants undergo a rigorous evaluation process that includes a multi-day site visit by Magnet nurse appraisers to review nursing services.
“This distinction underscores the tremendous professionalism, care and compassion of Christiana Care’s nurses,” says Diane Talarek, RN, chief nursing officer at Christiana Care.
Research shows there are clear benefits to hospitals that receive Magnet status and to the communities they serve in consumer confidence, recruitment and retention and in maintaining quality of care. Magnet recognition is maintained for four years. During that period, the ANCC monitors facilities to ensure high standards of care are maintained.
“Our nursing staff are truly deserving of this designation, recognizing the excellent work they do everyday. I am so proud of them,” adds Janet Cunningham, RN, associate chief nursing officer.
View photographs of the announcement of our Magnet achievement and other aspects of the Magnet process in our Flickr gallery.