feasibility study of using the magnet hospital model in improving quality of nursing care in iran: an action research pilot study

Background: iran’s health system continues to face challenges in nursing care quality, highlighting the need to improve nursing-sensitive indicators. this pilot study evaluated the feasibility of implementing the magnet hospital recognition program to enhance nursing care quality in six iranian university-affiliated hospitals.methods: an action research design was carried out from 2022 to 2024 in six hospitals selected by predefined inclusion criteria. the study comprised three stages. in stage one, investigators used a validated gap-analysis questionnaire to assess existing nursing service processes across five magnet dimensions and developed targeted improvement plans. stage two involved implementing interventions, including specialized training courses, development of a nursing management portal and managerial dashboard, compilation of care indicators, facilitation of advanced qualification licensing for nurses, and establishment of a collaborative research committee with the nursing faculty. in the third stage, program monitoring was conducted through quarterly field visits and progress reports. all data were collected via the gap-analysis tool.results: at baseline (stage one), all centers scored zero in most magnet dimensions, prompting the design of specific improvement programs. during stage two, organizational overview initiatives empowered managers and updated the nursing management portal. empirical outcomes advanced through training in the nursing process, pain and wound management, patient satisfaction measurement, and structured patient education and follow-up. transformational leadership efforts delivered a managerial information dashboard and systematic indicator tracking. structural empowerment was achieved via professional qualification programs, and innovation was fostered through a joint research committee and human-resource planning. stage three monitoring revealed that most pilot hospitals had progressed to level 1 (planning and development) and a minority to level 2 (full implementation), demonstrating measurable advancement toward magnet standards.conclusion: the deputy of nursing’s “outstanding hospital” initiative successfully piloted magnet-based improvements, notably enhancing patient satisfaction and standard adoption. continued focus on evidence-based practice, professional growth, and the integration of telenursing is recommended for broader implementation.