Cheers of joy echoed throughout St. Joseph Hospital on January 17, 2007 when Katie Skelton, vice president of Patient Care Services, announced that St. Joseph Hospital of Orange had received Magnet designation, the nation's highest honor for nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). "This is an amazing moment in St. Joseph Hospital history for everyone, especially the nursing staff," said Skelton. "It is wonderful that our nursing staff are recognized for their clinical expertise and the exceptional care they provide for our patients. Magnet designation represents what we all, including our patients, already know about the extraordinary care that makes St. Joseph Hospital one the best in Orange County."

• Magnet recognition is a coveted designation to recognize excellence in nursing care. This helps hospitals attract and retain quality employees and it helps patients find healthcare organizations with a demonstrated level of quality.
• It's the highest award a hospital can receive for excellence in nursing.
• The process to obtain Magnet status is thorough and lengthy.

• Attract and retain highly qualified nurses - Magnet status demonstrates to nurses that a hospital provides opportunities for professional growth and a positive environment to provide patient care.
• High standards of quality patient care
• Excellent nursing services
• Professional work environment - By promoting learning and professional growth for nurses, Magnet hospitals also foster a positive environment.
• Collaboration between hospital departments and physicians
• Attract and retain highly qualified nurses - Magnet status demonstrates to nurses that a hospital provides opportunities for professional growth and a positive environment to provide patient care.