Nurses at the Rush University System for Health are on the front line of our efforts to provide quality care, receiving Magnet designation at all three of our hospital locations: Rush University Medical Center, Rush Oak Park Hospital and Rus Copley Medical Center.
Rush University Medical Center was the first hospital in Illinois serving adults and children to receive Magnet designation. In 2020, the Medical Center earned its fifth consecutive Magnet designation. Rush Oak Park Hospital received its second Magnet designation in 2021, and Rush Copley Medical Center achieved Magnet with Distinction designation in 2024.
The highest recognition given for nursing excellence, the Magnet Recognition Program acknowledges health care organizations for quality patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional nursing practice. The status is a designation of the American Nurses Credentialing Center of the American Nurses Association.
Magnet designation is considered the “gold standard.” It means Rush nurses are experts continually working to improve patient care through specialized training and quality improvements. It acknowledges that our nurses are among the best in providing high-quality patient care, improving patient outcomes and safety, pursuing ongoing training, working as a team and giving to the community. Rush nurses have a healthy work environment and high level of engagement as demonstrated through periodic nursing satisfaction surveys.
Contributing to Rush’s Magnet designation, Rush nurses rigorously pursue professional advancement. More than 50% of Rush University System for Health nurses have a professional nursing certification. With tuition reimbursement and the availability of Rush University, 90% of Rush University System for Health nurses have a BSN or higher degree.
While Magnet designation recognizes nursing excellence, this is also an achievement for the entire organization. As part of their evaluation, Magnet teams also interviewed physicians, patients, members of the community and many other stakeholders at each hospital. They evaluated Rush University System for Health nursing with regard to the following:
- Quality patient outcomes
- Innovative, patient-focused initiatives
- Nursing and interdisciplinary efforts to improve patient safety
- Work and patient care environments
- How clinical nurses are involved in decision making
- Professional development of the nursing staff
- Efforts to reduce turnover
Magnet Recognition Program Overview
Consumers rely on Magnet designation as the ultimate credential for high-quality nursing. Developed by ANCC, Magnet is the leading source of successful nursing practices and strategies worldwide.
Benefits of Magnet Designation
- Attract and retain top talent
- Improve patient care, safety and satisfaction
- Foster a collaborative culture
- Advance nursing standards and practice
- Grow your business and financial success
Magnet: In Support of Patient Safety
Goals and Guiding Principles
The Magnet Recognition Program advances three goals within health care organizations:
- Promote quality in a setting that supports professional practice
- Identify excellence in the delivery of nursing services to patients/residents
- Disseminate best practices in nursing services