The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is pleased to announce the new Pathway to Excellence in Long Term Care™ (PTE-LTC) Program. This is the first recognition of its kind for long term care facilities. 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 facilities that foster work environments where nurses can flourish, 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 TM 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 facilities to gain recognition even if they do not have a baccalaureate-prepared director of nursing (DON). Current plans call for the possible retirement of, the Pathway to Excellence in Long Term Care Program effective January 1, 2013, and upon that occurrence, long term care facilities seeking Pathway designation would be required to have a baccalaureate-prepared DON and to meet all Pathway to Excellence criteria. Long term care facilities that receive PTE-LTC designation prior to January 1, 2013 will be able to apply for Pathway to Excellence designation when their PTE-LTC designation expires.

• Learn more about available resources for the Pathway to Excellence in Long Term Care Program

ANCC is now accepting applications for the Pathway to Excellence in Long Term Care Program. If you are interested in learning more, please contact the Pathway to Excellence Program office at pathwayinfo@ana.org.