Duke Raleigh Hospital is now part of an exclusive club.
The Raleigh-based hospital, part of the Duke University Health System, has achieved Magnet designation for excellence in nursing by the American Nurses Credentialing Center-a distinction only 5 percent of the nation's hospitals have earned, according to a Feb. 17 Duke press release.
With Duke Raleigh's Magnet designation, the Duke University Health System became the only hospital system in Research Triangle Park to have all hospitals receive this distinction, the press release stated.
"This is a wonderful accomplishment for Duke Raleigh and a testament to our commitment to make Duke Raleigh Hospital a great place to get care and a great place to give care," said Doug Vinsel, chief execcutive officer of Duke Raleigh.
The achievement should also benefit the hospital in the future, said Rosemary Brown, Duke Raleigh's chief nursing officer.
"Once you achieve Magnet designation... you retain your nurses longer," she said.
She added that many nursing schools tell their nurses to seek work at a Magnet organization, which means the hospital may be able to recruit more nurses. Other benefits include higher consumer confidence and the ability to maintain quality care.
Brown noted that surveyors who determined the Magnet status told the Duke Raleigh staff that their family-like environment set them apart from other hospitals.
"This is really a designation that you receive because of the work environment that you create and sustain for your nurses," she said.
Duke Raleigh was informed of its Magnet designation Feb. 13 after an exhaustive three-year-long application process involving more than 225 employees. It will be designated as a Magnet hospital for four years.
Magnet designation is the highest level of national recognition "to healthcare organizations that demonstrate sustained excellence in nursing care," the statement reads.
Duke Raleigh will receive a crystal trophy honoring its designation and the entire nursing staff will receive special pins April 1, Brown said. The hospital will continue to be monitored by members of the ANCC to ensure that it is continuing quality care.
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