Description/Overview: The achievement of Magnet status has become a major goal for acute care organizations. This symposium focuses on how the integration of EBP through EBP mentors aligns with and facilitates the achievement of Magnet recognition and nursing excellence. Critical outcomes related to patient care and satisfaction as well as nursing satisfaction are all positively impacted when nursing practice is based on evidence (Heater, Becker, & Olson, 1998; (Melnyk et al., 2004; Pravikoff et al., 2005). Furthermore, nurses are more satisfied in their work when they deliver the best care possible and EBP, supported by mentors, can deliver this critical aspect of nursing excellence in organizations also. EBP mentors have demonstrated their effectiveness in driving and delivering patient care outcomes at the unit, service and organizational levels in creative and innovative ways. By promoting a culture of clinical inquiry and informed consideration of relevant evidence, EBP mentors promote nursing practice that is autonomous, collaborative, empowered and excellent; attributes that support Magnet principles and forces. The first session of this symposium will discuss a framework for building an evidence-based Magnet culture. The second session will describe how EBP Mentors operationalize Magnet forces to improve healthcare outcomes. The third session will describe the perspective of EBP Mentors active in Magnet facilities. The final session offers strategies for building a critical mass of EBP Mentors for a significant impact on the Magnet or Magnet-journey organization.

Learner Objective #1: Discuss the synergy between EBP Mentors and sustaining a Magnet culture.

Learner Objective #2: Describe how to foster the role of EBP Mentor in organizations on their Magnet journey or who have achieved Magnet designation.