The AACN Synergy Model for Patient Care: a nursing model as a Force of Magnetism

One of the 14 Forces of Magnetism requires a health care organization to have a professional model of care. The eligibility requirements stipulate that this model must be utilized throughout the health care system and that the same philosophy must be used throughout the system. The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Synergy Model for Patient Care describes nursing practice based on eight patient characteristics, and also describes eight nurse competencies. The core concept of the model is that the needs or characteristics of patients and families influence and drive the characteristics or competencies of nurses. Synergy results when the needs and characteristics of a patient, clinical unit, or system are matched with a nurse's competencies. The synergy model is an excellent framework to organize the work of patient care throughout the health care system. It can be used and applied in various ways and provides a comprehensive framework for assuring success in building a philosophy that supports the Forces of Magnetism.