KENMORE — Kenmore Mercy Hospital announced that it has received national recognition for excellence in nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Magnet Recognition Program. With this recognition, Kenmore Mercy joins a select magnet community, as only 454 hospitals worldwide have received the designation. Kenmore Mercy is also the only magnet-designated hospital in Western New York.

Magnet recognition reflects the highest standards of nursing professionalism, collaboration and teamwork, and distinguishes Kenmore Mercy Hospital as a premier destination for health care in the region. Hospitals attain magnet status by going through a multi-year, rigorous, voluntary application process.

"Receiving magnet recognition is the culmination of our continued commitment to nursing excellence," said James M. Millard, RPh, president and chief executive officer at Kenmore Mercy Hospital. "It signifies a culture of excellence that is central to how we serve our community."

The Magnet Model, with a focus on transformational leadership, structural empowerment, exemplary professional practice, new knowledge, innovations, and improvements, supports outstanding patient outcomes. Magnet recognition highlights Kenmore Mercy's deep commitment to delivering the highest quality nursing care and fostering an environment that attracts and retains the very best nurses.

"This recognition reflects the outstanding care our nurses provide and the quality patient outcomes they help achieve," added Cheryl W. Hayes, MS, ANP, NEA-BC, vice president of patient care services, who oversees more than 300 nurses at Kenmore Mercy. "It also reflects the commitment of every member of the hospital team who works each day to assure excellence in patient care."

Magnet organizations must show that their nursing outcomes are better than comparison national benchmarks in several dimensions, including patient falls, hospital-acquired pressure ulcers and infections, pain management, and peripheral IV complications. Magnet organizations must also exceed national benchmarks for patient and family satisfaction, as well as nurse satisfaction.

In addition, Kenmore Mercy also received its seventh consecutive "A" rating from The Leapfrog Group, an industry watchdog, which collects and reports hospital performance to improve quality and safety. Kenmore Mercy was also named Leapfrog's only "Top Hospital" in New York state in 2016. These awards further demonstrate the commitment of the hospital's health care team to provide safe, high quality care.