• E-mail
• Print
• RSS

Inside scoop from our experts: Preparing the written documentation

HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*, October 27, 2009

Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*!

This week, a reader asks about how much time to allocate for compiling evidence and completing the written documentation. Read the response from Barbara Hannon, RN, MSN, CPHQ, ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® (MRP) coordinator at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Q: We have just started our journey toward nursing excellence. How much time should we allocate for the documentation?

A: Writing the documentation for MRP designation is undoubtedly the most daunting, time consuming, and at times, grueling, part of the journey. But achieving a site visit from MRP appraisers-and ultimate designation-depends on the written documentation. To make the process easier, divide it into three phases:

1. Preparation: Devote at least six months to gathering and organizing the evidence and exhibits.
2. Writing: Create a timeline for each source of evidence based on how long it will take to write. Allow at least six months to accomplish this phase.
3. Editing and presentation: Allow at least two to three months to have the documentation proofed by an internal or external editor. Allow time for the creation of your documentation into books that are presentable and strong enough to withstand the test of time.

Editor's note: Do you have a question for our experts? If you would like us to consider your query for publication, please e-mail it to senior managing editor Rebecca Hendren at rhendren@hcpro.com.

Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*!

• E-mail to a Colleague
• Print
• RSS
• Archive