The American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) new Pathway to Excellence in Long Term Care™ (PTE-LTC) Program is the first recognition of its kind for long term care organizations. Like Pathway to Excellence®, the new Long Term Care Program recognizes the essential elements of an optimal nursing practice environment. The Pathway to Excellence in Long Term Care Program also recognizes long term care organizations that foster work environments where nurses can excel in their practice, substantiates the professional satisfaction of nurses, and identifies best places to work. The impact of healthy work environments on nurse satisfaction and retention is evident in the literature and many studies have indicated a strong impact of a positive work environment on patient safety, patient satisfaction, and quality care. ANCC believes that these studies will translate favorably to the long term care community.
The PTE-LTC Program is based on Pathway to Excellence standards, but is specific to the long term care environment. Some of the key differences in the PTE-LTC standards are listed below:
- Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) are included in the nursing community.
- Educational standards are temporarily established for Directors of Nursing (DON).
- Important issues in long term care facilities, including staff education in regard to zero tolerance of resident abuse and neglect and policies/protocols related to the use of restraints and falls prevention are highlighted.
- A person-centered model of care is understood.
The Pathway to Excellence in Long Term Care Program is a time-limited opportunity for long term care organizations to gain recognition even if they do not have a baccalaureate-prepared Director of Nursing (DON). Program requirements may be modified and published for application in the future, and upon that occurrence long term care organizations seeking Pathway designation would be required to have a baccalaureate-prepared DON and to meet all Pathway to Excellence criteria.
If you would like to order brochures about the Pathway to Excellence program free of charge, please send a request to PathwayInfo@ana.org with the name of your organization, contact person, mailing address, and number of brochures.
Visit our Resources Center to see what materials are available for you.