A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice RN who functions as a health care provider, educator, consultant, researcher, leader/administrator and/or case manager. It is the CNS who often sets the standards for quality patient care; trouble shoots problems and crises; anticipates complications and helps to prevent their development; and views the individual, family or group within the context of a whole system. The CNS usually has a specialty practice area such as diabetes, cardiology, respiratory, pediatrics or psychiatric-mental health.

Master’s or Doctoral Degree and several years of practice in a clinical nursing specialty.

Certification at the national level as a CNS in the area of specialty.

A CNS must be able to care for individuals, families, groups and systems with complex health needs within a specific clinical area; use theoretical and clinical expertise to assist health care providers and consumers in promoting or achieving optimal health; develop and implement standards of nursing practice; serve as consultant or resource person for other health providers; facilitate an interdisciplinary approach to meeting the needs of the patient; use effective utilization of resources in order to provide cost effective care; seek consultations and make referrals as needed; use and promote research to improve clinical nursing practice.

In some settings and geographic areas, the role of the CNS is combining with that of the Nurse Practitioner and/or Certified Nurse Midwives as an advanced practice nurse.

A variety of settings including hospitals, health care systems, homes, clinics, extended care facilities, offices, schools, business and private practice.

National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists
4700 W. Lake Avenue
Glenview, IL 60025-1485
(847) 375-4740
Fax: 847-375-4777

American Nurses Credentialing Center
600 Maryland Avenue, SW
Suite 100 West
Washington, DC 20024-2671
(202) 651-7000 or 800-284-CERT
Fax: 202-651-7004