Children’s of Mississippi has taken a significant step towards achieving the prestigious Magnet designation by submitting its comprehensive application to the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The lengthy document, representing nearly a year of dedicated work, was officially submitted in a ceremony attended by team members at the Kathy and Joe Sanderson Tower’s BankPlus Community Room.
The Magnet designation, held by only about 10% of U.S. hospitals, signifies excellence in nursing and healthcare practices. Achieving this status is linked to higher job satisfaction among staff and improved patient safety. Ellen Hansen, the hospital’s Chief Nursing and Chief Operations Officer, emphasized that the next phase involves a site visit to verify the alignment of the hospital’s practices with the narratives detailed in their application.
Dr. Kristina Cherry, Chief Nursing Executive at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, highlighted the efficiency and dedication of the Children’s of Mississippi team in completing the application within a year, a process that can typically extend to four and a half years.
Key initiatives undertaken as part of the Magnet application process include the implementation of a robust interprofessional governance model, an increase in baccalaureate-educated nurses, and enhanced clinician involvement in research and clinical practice. These efforts reflect the hospital’s commitment to embodying core values of integrity, excellence, and compassionate care.
Michael Jones, Manager of the Transition to Practice Program, noted that Magnet status empowers clinicians by involving them in hospital governance and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Jones is also spearheading initiatives to create transition programs for newly graduated and experienced nurses.
Achieving Magnet designation not only benefits clinicians but also enhances patient outcomes. Research indicates that Magnet hospitals experience higher job satisfaction, better patient safety, and higher adoption of safe practices. They also report fewer adverse events and higher patient satisfaction.
Ashley Darby, Director of Imaging Services at UMMC, praised the interdisciplinary collaboration encouraged by the Magnet designation. She emphasized the critical role of non-nursing departments in achieving high-quality care and clinical outcomes.
Currently, 77% of registered nurses at Children’s of Mississippi hold a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, with efforts underway to increase this to at least 80%. The University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing offers pathways for nurses to advance their education, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and fostering a culture of excellence.
Keri Nobles and Madeline Ingram, both registered nurses at the hospital, are among those advancing their education through the RN-to-BSN program. They expressed enthusiasm about developing their skills and contributing to leadership within the hospital.
Children’s of Mississippi now awaits the site visit, which will determine its eligibility for the Magnet designation, a status that promises to enhance both staff morale and patient care standards.
