LETTER SPECIAL FEATURE * Outcome measurements * 3 Anderson/Intermediate Cardiac Care Unit * 6 Bed Tower * Cardiovascular Thoracic ICU * Intermediate Surgical Care Unit * Medical ICU * Medicine Progressive Care Unit * Neuroscience ICU * Surgical Trauma ICU Applications are assigned to a panel of expert reviewers who evaluate the application using an objective scoring system. The review process takes 5-7 months, which includes an executive summary and final feedback report with recommendations for improvement. The units and their level of designation include: Gold Level Designation: 5 Anderson 5 Bed Tower 5 West 7 Neurosciences AACN recognizes newly designated units during its annual conference, the National Teaching Institute (NTI), at a special ceremony. Over the past 4 years, UNCH has been recognized at the ceremony for the large number of Beacon designated units. We are very proud of the outstanding work and patient outcomes evidenced by the large number of our Beacon units! 2018 Nursing Annual Report | 15 ACCOMPLISHMENTS * * * * UNCH is tied for the second most Beacon designated units in the country. STAFF AWARDS Currently there are only 542 designated Beacon units in the country with 22 of those being in North Carolina. UNC Hospitals (UNCH) is fortunate to have 12 of the 22 Beacon units in the state. As an organization, UNCH is tied for the second most Beacon designated units in the country. STAFF PROFILES Silver Level Designation: FEATURE * Evidence-based practice and processes MAGNET® STORIES The Beacon Award for Excellence is a significant milestone on the path to exceptional patient care and healthy work environments.