SALEM, Ore. – August 15, 2025 – Salem Hospital has achieved its fourth Magnet Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), reaffirming its commitment to nursing excellence and high-quality patient care. The Magnet Recognition Program® is the nation’s highest honor for professional nursing practice, awarded to only about 10% of hospitals worldwide. Of those, just 2% have earned the designation four times.
“This is more than a milestone — it’s a testament to years of sustained excellence, teamwork, and dedication to our mission,” said Cheryl Nester Wolfe, president and CEO of Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics. “It reflects a culture where nurses and interprofessional teams are supported, valued, and empowered to innovate.”
Chief Nursing Officer Sarah Horn added, “Our fourth Magnet award is proof of the values that drive us to serve our community every day. It’s an honor that belongs to every member of our care team.”
During this review cycle, Salem Hospital received eight exemplars — areas where it exceeded national standards — double the four exemplars awarded in its previous designation. These include:
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Hypervelocity RN hiring
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Professional certification rate
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BSN rate
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RN turnover rate
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Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rate
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Multi-drug resistant organism (MDRO) rate
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Depression screening and follow-up
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Diabetes care and control
Why Magnet Matters
Research shows Magnet-recognized hospitals achieve:
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Higher patient satisfaction
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Lower mortality rates and fewer complications
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Higher nurse job satisfaction and retention
The Magnet Model evaluates leadership, nursing practice, research, and patient outcomes through a rigorous process, including documentation, site visits, and peer review. Hospitals must reapply every four years and show measurable improvements.
About Salem Health
Salem Health serves Oregon’s mid-Willamette Valley with hospitals in Salem and Dallas, a medical group of primary and specialty providers, and affiliated services. Learn more at www.salemhealth.org.
About ANCC’s Magnet Recognition Program
Administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the Magnet Recognition Program is considered the gold standard for nursing excellence worldwide. For more information, visit www.nursingworld.org/magnet.
