The pull of magnetism: a look at the standards and the experience of a western academic medical center hospital in achieving and sustaining Magnet status

Many hospitals are working to improve the work environment for their staff. Research has indicated a linkage between work environment characteristics and patient outcomes and this research along with the nursing shortage has been the impetus for focusing on improving the work environment. The authors described the experience of an academic medical center hospital in achieving Magnet hospital status. The process and the required resources and support are discussed. Outcome data from staff nurses regarding their perception of the work environment in a Magnet hospital are presented.