Saturday, September 24, 2011

Magnet Recognition Program

As of this writing there are two (2) Magnet designated facilities in North Dakota.  Others may or may not be in the process of either making a commitment to become a Magnet facility or others may have already decided and are in the process of  a self study to determine how they measure up to the Magnet criteria.
So what does being designated "Magnet" mean?
There are 5 components to the Magnet model:
Transformation Leadership
Structural Empowerment
Exemplary Professional Practice
New Knowledge, Innovation, and Improvements
Empirical Quality Results

New Knowledge, Innovation, and Improvements is briefly described as "organizations have an ethical and professional responsibility to contribute to healthcare delivery, the organization, and the profession." [emphasis added]. 
Empirical Quality Results is described as "Organizations are in a unique position to become pioneers of the future and to demonstrate solutions to numerous problems inherent in today's healthcare systems" (notice it does not say just in your OWN system). 
NDNA is a professional organization for nurses.  We are a constituent member organization of the American Nurses Association (ANA) of which ANCC -the American Nurses Credentialing Center is part of.  ANCC is the organization facilities apply to to achieve Magnet status.
Membership in NDNA provides an opportunity for nurses in this state to achieve portions of the Magnet criteria. Active membership provides opportunities to serve on national boards, you could be appointed to serve on ANA or ANCC committees!  Membership and communication with nurses across the state assists and influences the practice of nursing everywhere.  Discussions, problem solving, and sharing innovations benefits everyone in the health care system.  
Many nurses continue to choose to NOT join any professional organization. (Some national estimates are as high as 80%).  In ND we have over 10,000 RNs licensed to practice.  Some choose to join their specialty organization, some NDNA, but sadly the vast majority are not a member of ANY professional organization.
With the number of present and potential Magnet facilities in this state, the ratio of nurses who participate in professional activities should be far higher. 
NDNA participates with the ND Center for Nursing, the Partners Investing in Nursing's Future (Geriatric Nursing/ FLAG), and maintains the ND Online Journal Club where EBP is showcased. Every other year NDNA is active in monitoring and testifying if needed at the ND legislature.
NDNA champions the Scope and Standards of Nursing Practie. Aspiring authors are supported through the publishing process to help disseminate information to a wider audience. 
Membership in a professional organization provides the opportunity for nurses to step outside their workplace and contemplate the bigger picture of health care in North Dakota.  NDNA's mission is to promote the professional development of nurses and enhance health care for all through practice, education, research and development of public policy.  
Come join us, fulfill your professional responsibility to contribute to your profession.

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