Mortality in magnet hospitals: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Research
• Patient Outcomes

Background:

• Magnet hospitals are distinguished by high standards in patient care and nursing.
• There is ongoing investigation into the impact of Magnet designation on patient mortality rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize evidence on the effect of Magnet hospital designation on patient mortality rates.
• To evaluate the association between Magnet status and mortality outcomes in healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL.
• Thirteen articles meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed, adhering to PRISMA guidelines and assessed using the JBI-MAStARI Critical Appraisal Tool.
• Included study designs comprised descriptive comparative research, cohort studies, and retrospective panel designs.

Main Results:

• Three descriptive comparative studies found no significant difference in mortality rates between Magnet and non-Magnet hospitals.
• Five descriptive comparative studies and five longitudinal studies indicated lower mortality rates in Magnet hospitals.
• Overall, the systematic review suggests an association between Magnet hospital designation and reduced mortality rates.

Conclusions:

• Magnet hospitals are associated with improved patient mortality outcomes.
• Findings support the value of pursuing Magnet designation for enhancing hospital quality and potentially reducing costs.
• This review offers critical insights for hospital executives and nurse-clinicians regarding the benefits of Magnet status.