magnet status qustion during interview

ginger58, ASN, RN · Oct 31, 2006

I guess it would be appropriate but it wouldn't be a question I would ask. I'd find out the answer online or from someone before the interview. If they're not, then I might ask if they have any plans in the future.

llg, PhD, RN · Oct 31, 2006

It's not inappropriate, but it might not be a good idea depending on the circumstances. It also might not be a good way to judge a hospital. It's a controversial topic and it might do you more harm than good. So, assess the situation first.

For example, if none of the hospitals in the immediate area have magnet certification, there is little incentive for a hospital to apply. The greatest hospital in the world might choose to invest its resources on other things if there is no immediate need to get the certification. By bringing it up and asking them to defend themselves as to why they decided not to pursue it might cause an awkwardness in the interview that I would want to avoid.

In general, it's best to avoid awkwardness in an interview whenever possible.

In other circumstances, it might be a very appropriate and positive thing to bring up. For example, if you know that a hospital is pursueing the Magnet certification, it might be a positive question that shows you are knowledgable and interested in such things. It would also give you a chance to compliment the hospital on its efforts and express an interest in being part of such an enterprise.

Assess the situation BEFORE you bring up such a controversial topic.

llg

mygriff · Oct 31, 2006

i have been encouraged to do so by professors at school but my thinking was as yours is.....don't ruffle any feathers.

thank you for your posts.

llg, PhD, RN · Oct 31, 2006

i have been encouraged to do so by professors at school but my thinking was as yours is.....don't ruffle any feathers.
thank you for your posts.

As you have probably realized by now ... Most of your professors and not very involved in current hospital practice and may not be aware of the all the subtle "ins and outs" of this controversial topic. They may only see the situation from one perspective when there are really many different valid perspectives.

It sounds to me as if you have good instincts. Trust them.

Good luck,

llg