Beyond Magnet® Designation: Perspectives From Nurse Managers on Factors of Sustainability and High-Performance Programming.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to identify patterns of high-performing behaviors and nurse manager perceptions of the factors of Magnet® sustainability at a multidesignated Magnet organization.


BACKGROUND
The Magnet program recognizes exemplary professional nursing practice and is challenging to achieve and sustain. Only 10% (n = 42) of Magnet hospitals sustained designation for 12 years or longer. This study explored the perspectives of Magnet nurse managers regarding high-performing teams and the sustainability of Magnet designation.


METHODS
A qualitative study of nurse managers was conducted at 1 multidesignated Magnet organization (n = 13). Interview responses were analyzed using pattern recognition of Magnet model domains and characteristics of high-performing teams and then related to factors of Magnet sustainability.


RESULTS
Transformational leadership is both an essential factor for sustainability and a potential barrier to sustainability of Magnet designation.


CONCLUSIONS
Transformational nursing leaders lead high-performing teams and should be in place at all levels as an essential factor in sustaining Magnet redesignation.
Author Affiliations: UPMC Passavant (Dr Hayden); and University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing (Drs Wolf and Zedreck-Gonzalez), Pennsylvania.
Margaret A
MA
Hayden
Gail A
GA
Wolf
Judith F
JF
Zedreck-Gonzalez
D002983:Clinical Competence; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D007857:Leadership; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care