Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 1, 2022

In September 2021, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) granted Kootenai Health its fourth consecutive Magnet recognition. Only 563 hospitals have achieved Magnet recognition worldwide. Even fewer—just 137, or about 24 percent—have achieved Magnet four or more times. Kootenai has held Magnet status since 2006 and is one of only two Magnet hospitals in the state of Idaho. Magnet designation is the highest and most prestigious international distinction a health care organization can receive for nursing excellence. The Magnet Recognition program recognizes health care organizations for quality patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional nursing practice. To be recognized as a Magnet hospital, health care organizations must pass rigorous and lengthy review processes that demand widespread participation from leadership and staff. “I am incredibly proud of our nursing staff and the entire health care team that made this achievement possible,” Kootenai Health Chief Nursing Officer Joan Simon said. “Magnet is the highest honor in nursing. This recognizes nurses for the exemplary outcomes of care delivered each day here at Kootenai Health.” Vigilant in thepandemic Joan said this redesignation is particularly well deserved because: “Our nurses have remained vigilant throughout the pandemic. They Kootenai Health received news of its fourth Magnet redesignation on Sept. 15, 2021. From left: Kootenai Health nursing leaders Nikki Graham, director of nursing excellence; Joan Simon, chief nursing officer; and Melissa Quaid, outgoing Magnet Program and professional governance coordinator. AMagnet for Nursing Excellence Kootenai Health achieves prestigious international designation for fourth consecutive time ensured exemplary care despite the challenges, which is a truly amazing achievement! Without a doubt, our positive culture, defined by the engagement and empowerment of nurses, was the catalyst to ensuring the delivery of safe, high-quality care, resulting in this prestigious award.” Magnet recognition has been shown to provide specific benefits to hospitals and their communities, such as higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help, receipt of discharge information and higher job satisfaction among nurses. “We are honored and excited to receive Magnet status,” Kootenai Health CEO Jon Ness said. “This achievement is a validation of the professionalism, teamwork and compassionate patient care Kootenai Health is known for.” In order to retain Magnet status, organizations must reapply every four years. The process includes the submission of electronic applications, followed by written documentation and evidence regarding patient care and outcomes. Following the documentation review, qualifying organizations must undergo intensive site reviews by Magnet surveyors. KH . ORG 5