09/20/2021

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital Awarded Prestigious Nursing recognition for Second Time

For the second consecutive time, Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has achieved Magnet-accreditation from The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program®. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital is one of only three health care facilities in the state to earn the distinction and among less than 9 percent of hospitals nationwide and 6.2 percent to receive the designation two or more consecutive times.

The Commission on Magnet Recognition voted unanimously to approve the designation this week.

Magnet recognition is the gold standard for excellence in patient care and is a factor when the public judges health care organizations. U.S. News & World Report’s annual showcase of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality of inpatient care. To achieve initial Magnet recognition, organizations must pass a rigorous and lengthy process that demands widespread participation from leadership and staff. This process includes an electronic application, written patient care documentation, an on-site visit, and a review by the Commission on Magnet Recognition.

“It’s just amazing how incredibly committed each and every member of the Wentworth-Douglass Hospital team is to supporting care of patients and improving care, while at the same time, taking care of each other,” said Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care Services, Sheila Woolley, RN, BSN, MPH, NEA-BC. “I applaud them and recognize them. This is a well-deserved honor for all of the hard work and dedication they apply every day at WDH.”

Health care organizations must reapply for Magnet recognition every four years based on adherence to Magnet concepts and demonstrated improvements in patient care and quality. An organization reapplying for Magnet recognition must provide documented evidence to demonstrate how staff members sustained and improved Magnet concepts, performance and quality over the four-year period since the organization received its initial recognition.

Research shows that Magnet-recognized organizations demonstrate better patient outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. As a Magnet-recognized organization, Wentworth-Douglass Hospital is making a significant contribution to the community by keeping patients healthy and safe.

“Magnet recognition means that all nurses and staff at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital are supported through every phase of their career with continuing education and career development by our transformational leadership team, leading to outstanding care received by all of our patients. It was an honor to work with this team on our Magnet recertification,” said Samantha Smith, BSN, RN at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital.

To learn more about the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program visit nursingworld.org/magnet.