Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the loss of Magnet(R) designation and how RNs' work engagement changed at 1 community hospital.
BACKGROUND: The importance of RN work engagement to promote quality and safety is widely recognized in healthcare. Ongoing consistent research is critical to determine what organizational structures are needed to support RN work engagement.
METHODS: This was a comparative, descriptive, correlational study of RN cohorts at 2 time points: time 1 (T1), in 2011 during Magnet designation (n = 119), and time 2 (T2), in 2016, approximately 2 years after the loss of Magnet designation (n = 140).
RESULTS: The cohort of RNs at T2 reported significantly lower work engagement in the time period after the loss of Magnet designation when compared with the RN cohort at T1 during Magnet designation (P <= .0002).
CONCLUSION: These results provide insights for clinical leaders striving to support a culture of RN work engagement and quality care.