Described as the heart of the Magnet Recognition Program, the Forces of Magnetism are the 14 characteristics that allow hospitals to recruit and retain nurses.

Force 1: Quality of Nursing Leadership
The healthcare organization has knowledgeable, strong, risk-taking nurse leaders who convey a strong sense of advocacy and support for the staff and for the patient.

Force 2: Organizational Structure
The organizational structure is dynamic and responsive to change. The committee structure includes strong nursing representation. The organization has a functioning and productive system of shared decision-making.

Force 3: Management Style
The healthcare organization and nursing leaders create an environment supporting participation. Feedback is encouraged and valued, and is incorporated from the staff at all levels of the organization.

Force 4: Personel Policies and Programs
Salaries and benefits are competitive. Creative and flexible staffing models that support a safe and healthy work environment are used. There are significant opportunities for professional growth. Policies and programs support professional nursing practice, work/life balance and the delivery of quality care.

Force 5: Profesional Models of Care
Nurses are accountable for their own practice as well as the coordination of care. The models of care provide for continuity of care. They take into consideration patients’ unique needs, and provide skilled nurses and adequate resources.

Force 6: Quality of Care
Quality is the systematic driving force for nursing and the organization. There is a pervasive perception among nurses that they provide high-quality care to patients.

Force 7: Quality Improvement
The organization has structures and processes for the measurement of quality and programs for improving the quality of care and services within the organization.

Force 8: Consultation and Resources
The healthcare organization provides adequate resources and support. In addition, the organization promotes involvement of nurses in professional organizations and among peers in the community.

Force 9: Autonomy
The nurse is expected to practice autonomously, consistent with professional standards. Independent judgment is expected to be exercised within the context of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approaches to care.

Force 10: Comunity and the Healthcare Organization
Relationships are established to develop strong partnerships that support improved patient outcomes and the health of the communities they serve.

Force 11: Nurses as Teachers
Professional nurses are involved in educational activities within the organization and community. There is a development and mentoring program for staff preceptors for all levels of students. Staff in all positions serve as faculty and preceptors for students from a variety of academic programs. There is a patient education program that meets the diverse needs of patients.

Force 12: Image of Nursing
The services provided by nurses are characterized as essential by other members of the healthcare team.

Force 13: Interdisciplinary Relationships
Collaborative working relationships within and among the disciplines are valued. Mutual respect is based on the premise that all members of the healthcare team make essential and meaningful contributions in the achievement of clinical outcomes.

Force 14: Profesional Development
The healthcare organization values and supports the personal and professional growth and development of staff.