UW News

November 21, 2011

Magnet program again recognizes UW Medical Center for nursing excellence

UW Health Sciences/UW Medicine

Learn about the Magnet Recognition Program

University of Washington Medical Center once again has received Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center for excellence in nursing practice and patient care. The Magnet award is the highest level for hospital nursing awards by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

This is the fifth consecutive time UW Medical Center has been awarded Magnet designation. It is the only hospital in the United States to receive this repeated level of recognition.

The Magnet Recognition Program began 17 years ago to honor institutions that provide top quality nursing care. UW Medical Center was the first hospital in the nation to achieve Magnet status in 1994. As part of the application for re-designation, the medical center submitted key data and hosted a four-day site visit by a survey team in September.

“This historic achievement represents the efforts and commitment to patient care and nursing practice that our nurses and clinicians demonstrate every day. Magnet recognizes excellence in nursing and we share this award with our dedicated staff and faculty,” said Chief Nursing Officer Lorie Wild, senior associate administrator, Patient Care Services, UW Medical Center

Through the Magnet designation, the American Nurses Credentialing Center commends UW Medical Center as an institution that supports the highest quality of professional nursing practice, exemplifies excellence in leadership and management philosophy, as well as in the practices of nursing services. The designation also recognizes UW Medical Centers innovative nursing strategies to improve the quality of patient and family care.

“Congratulations to UWMCs nursing staff and the entire medical center on this well-deserved achievement,” said Steve Zieniewicz, executive director, UW Medical Center.