Magnet Moments: Sights on Six, Sights on Excellence
Magnet Moments: Sights on Six, Sights on Excellence
Magnet Moments highlight programs, people, and impacts that align with Magnet designation, a nationally recognized credential awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) that reflects excellence in nursing practice, quality patient outcomes, and a culture of professional empowerment.
Magnet recognition is the highest honor an organization can receive for nursing services. CMC has achieved Magnet designation 5 times and is working toward a sixth designation.
Magnet Moment: Certification Rate on CSICU
Department Highlighted: CSICU - 4CST ICU
Description of the Work
The Carilion Clinic Cardiovascular Surgical Intensive Care Unit (CSICU) promotes specialty certification as a key component of professional development and clinical excellence. In 2024, 68.5% of eligible nurses were certified, exceeding the Magnet benchmark of 51%. In 2025, the certification rate was 53.4%, remaining above the benchmark while taking the opportunity to highlighting supporting newly eligible nurses.
To address this opportunity, CSICU leadership implemented targeted strategies focused on supporting certification attainment. These efforts included systematic tracking of certification eligibility, proactive outreach to nurses as they became eligible, and individualized one-on-one discussions to assess readiness, identify barriers, and develop personalized action plans. Certification goals were also reinforced during annual evaluations to align certification attainment with career growth and advancement opportunities. Nurses were also connected with organizational resources, including financial assistance, study materials, and the Carilion Clinic certification bonus program.
Impact of Magnet Moment
- Maintained certification rates above the organizational benchmark despite changes in eligible staff populations
- Increased awareness of certification resources and financial support opportunities
- Established proactive tracking and individualized coaching for newly eligible nurses
- Reinforced professional development and specialty certification as unit expectations
- Strengthened a culture of clinical excellence, professional growth, and lifelong learning
MAGNET CONNECTION
The CSICU’s commitment to specialty certification demonstrates the Magnet Model component of Structural Empowerment by creating systems, resources, and leadership support that enable nurses to achieve professional growth and advanced clinical expertise. Through intentional certification tracking, individualized mentoring, and access to educational and financial resources, CSICU leaders empower nurses to advance their professional practice while enhancing the quality and safety of patient care. These efforts reflect the organization's commitment to supporting nursing excellence and fostering a highly qualified workforce.
Do you have a Magnet Moment to share? Please submit using the Microsoft form at this link or via the QR code below:
