[DutchgirlRN]

I was asked today if the hospital where I work is a magnet hospital? I don't have a clue as to what that means? Anyone know? Thanks!

[Angie O'Plasty, RN]

A Magnet hospital is one that draws nurses "like a magnet." This designation is awarded by the ANCC. Here's a link.

http://www.nursingworld.org/ancc/cert.html

[RealNurseWitch]

The hospital in which I work is currently trying to get Magnet status. It would make us only the third hospital in Kentucky to have it.

I think it's a crock of dung, myself. One of my good friends worked at a psyche hospital in Maine that was a Magnet hospital, and he said it was an awful place to work. And then there is St. Elizabeth hospital in Northern Kentucky, which is NOT a Magnet hospital but is still supposed to be one of the top five hospitals in the COUNTRY to work in. Go figure.

[anc33]

I would have to echo the last poster's comments. I work at a magnet hospital and am looking, desperately, for another job. I was a stupid new grad and figured that the designation meant that it would be a supportive environment with lots of learning opportunities. Wrong. Decent benefits, but I would trade that for a hospital that gives more than 3 weeks orientation to a new nurse in a so-called specialty area. Bottom line: Designation dosen't mean much.