Lessons learned when Magnet designation is not received.

Magnet designation is the highest level of acknowledgement accorded healthcare organizations in recognition of professional nursing care. After our nursing leadership team attended a Magnet conference in 1998, we were inspired, and so was our staff. In 2004, we submitted our documentation and were notified that it met the criteria, and our site visit was scheduled. We did not receive Magnet designation, but we viewed our experience as an opportunity to learn. The authors describe how a disappointing outcome was turned into an experience of great learning and transformation.