Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital has achieved a significant milestone in nursing excellence, receiving its fourth Magnet designation and its first Magnet with Distinction from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This makes it one of only four hospitals in Illinois to earn this prestigious distinction, which acknowledges organizations that have reached the highest level of nursing excellence. Nationally, only about 10% of hospitals achieve Magnet designation, and just 23 hospitals have received the "with distinction" status.
Karen Mahnke, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, vice president of Operations and Bernthal Family Chief Nurse Executive at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, expressed her pride in the achievement. She stated: “I am proud and honored to work alongside our wonderful nursing teams who demonstrate the deep impact of their nursing professional practice on our Patients First mission through the Magnet with Distinction designation. This honor reflects the collaborative practice that permeates throughout all members of the interprofessional team to create a caring and healthy environment at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital.”
The hospital's commitment to patient care is exemplified by Liliya Kofman, a nurse in the wound department. Kofman was instrumental in helping a patient's persistent wound heal by researching an anti-biofilm silver dressing. After proving its efficacy with physicians' collaboration, it became part of their treatment options.
Kofman emphasized: “Patient care is our priority. If there are new ways to help treat our patients offering stronger results, we will take the necessary steps to see that through. I was pleased to be a part of a team effort to better serve our patient and am proud that this may help many future patients as well.”
The hospital continues to innovate with programs like Hospital at Home. This initiative allows eligible patients to receive inpatient-level care at home under supervision from nurses and physicians using advanced technology for monitoring and consultations.
The ANCC Magnet Recognition Program sets high standards for healthcare organizations seeking recognition for nursing excellence. The process includes an electronic application, written documentation meeting over 80 unique standards, an on-site visit, and review by the Commission on Magnet Recognition.
Research indicates that Magnet recognition benefits healthcare organizations by improving patient satisfaction with nurse communication and increasing job satisfaction among nurses.
For further information about Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital or their services, please visit www.nm.org.
