The 14 Forces of Magnetism (FOM) are the standards against which all healthcare organizations pursuing Magnet designation are measured. The result of research conducted in the early 1980’s, the Forces of Magnetism represent the 14 essential characteristics found in each of the original 41 Magnet hospitals. Demonstrating excellence in these Forces across the organization is the hallmark of a Magnet hospital.
Force 1 |
Quality of Nursing Leadership |
| Nursing leaders are perceived as knowledgeable, strong risk-takers who follow an articulated philosophy in the day-to-day operations of the nursing department. Nursing leaders also convey a strong sense of advocacy and support on behalf of the staff. | |
Force 2 |
Organizational Structure |
| Organizations are characterized as flat, rather than tall, structures in which unit-based decision-making prevail. Nursing departments are decentralized, with strong nursing representation evident in the organizational committee structure. The nursing leader serves at the executive level of the organization, and the CNO reports to the executive level. | |
Force 3 |
Management Style |
| Organization and nursing administrators use a participative management style, incorporating feedback from staff at all levels of the organization. Feedback is characterized as encouraged and valued. Nurses serving in leadership positions are visible, accessible, and committed to communicating effectively with staff. | |
Force 4 |
Personnel Policies and Programs |
| Salaries and benefits are characterized as competitive. Rotating shifts are minimized, and creative and flexible staffing models are used. Personnel policies are created with staff involvement, and significant administrative and clinical promotional opportunities exist. | |
Force 5 |
Professional Models of Care |
| Models of care are used that give nurses the responsibility and authority for the provision of patient care. Nurses are accountable for their own practice and are the coordinators of care. | |
Force 6 |
Quality of Care |
| Nurses perceive that they are providing high-quality care to their patients. Providing quality care is seen as an organizational priority as well, and nurses serving in leadership positions are viewed as responsible for developing the environment in which high-quality care can be provided. | |
Force 7 |
Quality Improvement |
| Quality improvement activities are viewed as educational. Staff nurses participate in the quality improvement process and perceive the process as one that improves the quality of care delivered within the organization. | |
Force 8 |
Consultation and Resources |
| Adequate consultation and other human resources are available. Knowledgeable experts, particularly advanced practice nurses, are available and used. In addition, peer support is given within and outside the nursing division. | |
Force 9 |
Autonomy |
| Nurses are permitted and expected to practice autonomously, consistent with professional standards. Independent judgment is expected to be exercised within the context of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. | |
Force 10 |
Community and the Hospital |
| Organizations that are best able to recruit and retain nurses also maintain a strong community presence. A community presence is seen in a variety of ongoing, long-term outreach programs. These outreach programs result in the organization being perceived as a strong, positive, and productive corporate citizen. | |
Force 11 |
Nurses as Teachers |
| Nurses are permitted and expected to incorporate teaching in all aspects of their practice. Teaching is one activity that reportedly gives nurses a great deal of professional satisfaction. | |
Force 12 |
Image of Nursing |
| Nurses are viewed as integral to the organization’s ability to provide patient care services. Other members of the healthcare team characterize the services provided by nurses as essential. | |
Force 13 |
Interdisciplinary Relationships |
| Interdisciplinary relationships are characterized as positive. A sense of mutual respect is exhibited among all disciplines. | |
Force 14 |
Professional Development |
| Significant emphasis is placed on orientation, in-service education, continuing education, formal education, and career development. Personal and professional growth and development are valued. In addition, opportunities for competency-based clinical advancement exist, along with the resources to maintain competency. |
American Nurses Credentialing Center. (2004). Magnet Recognition Program® application manual 2005. Silver Spring, MD: Author.
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