Esmalla-Kosanam G. (2012)

Esmalla-Kosanam G. (2012). Comparison of nursing practice in Magnet and non-Magnet hospitals using Hess’s Index of Professional Nursing Governance. Doctoral dissertation. University of Phoenix.

Abstract
The purpose of this descriptive quantitative study was to compare staff nursing practice of one Magnet and one Non-Magnet hospital in the Chicago metropolitan area. Data analysis was conducted using MANOVA to determine whether or not significant differences existed between staff nursing practice at the two hospitals based on the six subscales of the Index of Professional Nursing Governance (IPNG). Data were derived from the 86 item Likert type survey instrument that was given to 244 RNs (71 Magnet participants and 173 Non-Magnet participants) who met inclusion criteria. Results of the study revealed a significant difference in nursing practice between the two hospitals based on overall governance scores and the six subscales of IPNG. MANOVA showed F = 4.11, p < .001; Wilk’s λ = 0.906, partial ε2 = .094. Independent Samples t Test was calculated to validate MANOVA findings. Results (t = 3.881778, p = .000148) also yielded a statistically significant difference (p < .05).

Research findings revealed a significant difference in five of the six hypotheses tested between the Magnet and Non-Magnet hospital on the six subscales of the INPG. Nurses in Magnet hospitals reported (a) more control over personnel and related structures, (b) more access to information relevant to governance activities, (c) more active participation in governance activities within the organization, (d) more control over nursing practice, and (e) better participation in setting goals and negotiating resolutions of conflict at various organizational levels significant to nursing practice.

Study findings supported acceptance of Ho3 that indicated no significant difference in the two hospital settings in the influence of staff nurses on resources that supported professional practice. Findings from the present study provide strong validation on the impact of Magnet designation on the nursing practice of RNs based on the six subscales of the IPNG. Findings indicated that RNs in the Magnet work environment were more autonomous and empowered compared to RNs in the Non-Magnet setting.

Questions? Contact the author, Gemma Esmalla.