Aurora news releases

Monday, April 11, 2005

Nurses at Aurora Health Care have again received Magnet Certification, the highest honor for nursing care awarded by the American Nursing Credentialing Center.  Aurora’s hospitals in Milwaukee and Washington counties were first designated as Magnet sites in 2001. Being named a Magnet organization for a second time means that the Aurora hospitals continually offer patients the highest quality care leading to better patient outcomes, lower nurse turnover and higher patient satisfaction rates.  Less than 3% of all hospitals nationwide have qualified as Magnet sites.

“This certification demonstrates Aurora’s commitment to providing every patient with nursing care excellence,” says Marie Golanowski, Aurora’s Metro Region vice president and chief nurse executive. “It also defines the caliber of nursing staff who choose to pursue their careers at Aurora’s Hospitals.”

To be recognized for a second time, sites had to go through a rigorous evaluation process.  Maintenance of the status quo from the Magnet designation in 2001 was not enough.  There needed to be a clear demonstration not only of clinical expertise, but also the nurses’ ability to advocate on behalf of their patients. The process involved meeting more than 60 specific criteria that represent excellence in all aspects of nursing and nursing administration. It also required verification through a five-day on site visit by appraisers representing the American Nurses Association, the foremost authority on nursing.  

The Magnet Certification cites the Aurora nurses at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center, St. Luke’s South Shore, Aurora Sinai Medical Center, West Allis Memorial Hospital and Aurora Medical Center – Washington County.  Throughout the state of Wisconsin there are close to 5,000 Aurora nurses who are making strides each day to improve the health of our communities.

Aurora Health Care is a not-for-profit Wisconsin health care provider and a nationally recognized leader in efforts to improve the quality of health care.  Aurora offers services at sites in 80 communities throughout eastern Wisconsin.

Contact: Jennifer Gross, Media Relations (414-385-2363)