Clinical nurse specialist

Clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with graduate preparation (earned master's or doctorate) from a program that prepares CNSs.

Role and Responsibilities

A Clinical nurse specialist is a healthcare provider who operates in a wide variety of healthcare settings. They are registered nurses who have gained additional knowledge and skills through a master's or doctoral degree program. They are experts in diagnosing and treating illness in their area of expertise. CNSs often work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities where they provide direct patient care and consultation services.

Education and Training

To become a Clinical nurse specialist, one must first complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse (RN). After gaining experience as an RN, one can then pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a specialization in clinical nursing. These programs typically include both classroom education and clinical experiences.

Specializations

Clinical nurse specialists can choose to specialize in a specific area of healthcare, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, oncology, psychiatric-mental health, or community health. They may also specialize in a specific type of care, such as rehabilitation or psychiatric/mental health.

Certification

After completing their graduate education, Clinical nurse specialists can become certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Certification is typically required by employers and can help CNSs demonstrate their expertise in their specialty area.

See Also

• Nursing
• Advanced practice registered nurse
• Nurse practitioner
• Registered nurse