Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

A clinical nurse specialist is one of the four major advanced practice roles for nurses. Although requirements for becoming a clinical nurse specialist vary by state, they are generally registered nurses who hold both a master’s degree in nursing and certification as a clinical nurse specialist from an approved national certifying body, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).

Each national certifying body has its own requirements, which generally include a master’s degree, a certain level of experience and a certification examination. Individuals should check with their state boards of nursing to determine which certifications are accepted.

Clinical Nurse Specialist Role

Clinical nurse specialists are responsible for applying expert knowledge and experience to a specific patient population, such as adult acute and critical care, in a clinical setting. In contrast to nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists often function as educators and consultants to the nursing staff and as experts in ensuring evidence-based practice and high-quality patient outcomes. The AACN has designated the following as core competencies for clinical nurse specialists: direct care, consultation, system leadership, collaboration, staff coaching, research, and evidence interpretation.

Clinical Nurse Specialist Scope of Practice

Clinical nurse specialists work within a specialty area defined by various parameters. They may work with a specific population such as adults or children, a specific setting such as the emergency room, or a certain health specialty such as pain, cardiovascular, oncology and gynecology. Their expertise in their specialty area enables them to be effective consultants and coaches to other staff members.