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Weekly Q&A: Clinical advancement programs reach new heights

HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*, April 3, 2007

This week, a reader asks what types of programs can be implemented to provide clinical advancement opportunities to staff nurses. Read the response below from our advisor Barbara (BJ) Hannon, RN, MSN, ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® coordinator at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Q: What types of programs can be implemented to provide clinical advancement opportunities?

A: One of the most frequent examples of a recognition program for the bedside caregiver is the clinical ladder. Many ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® designated organizations have some type of clinical ladder that consists of steps connected to a monetary reward for bedside caregivers who meet the criteria established for each step.

In addition to clinical ladders, there are several alternative programs that facilities can use to reward nurses, such as the following:

• Preferred lines. Many hospitals reward the long-term bedside nurse with a preferred line. Sometimes the line is rewarded based on a set of established criteria.
• Decreased number of required weekends. Some organizations reward nurses at the bedside with a decrease in the number of weekends they are required to work, based on fulfillment of a certain criteria.
• Membership on shared governance or departmental committees. Many facilities recognize and reward long-term nurses with opportunities for membership on various committees.

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