Clinical Nurse Specialist

Answer 1

A clinical nurse specialist is an advanced practice nurse who holds a master’s or doctoral degree in a specialized area of nursing practice. Their area of expertise may be in pediatrics, geriatrics, women’s health, critical care, emergency room, psychiatric, rehabilitation, pain, wounds or stress. While a typical registered nurse is only responsible for helping patients prevent or resolve an illness, a clinical nurse specialist is a step above. A CNS will actually diagnose patients.

Job Description

A clinical nurse specialist can work in a wide variety of medical facilities and environments. A CNS could fall into five different categories: teaching, research, clinical practice, consulting, and management. A CNS should expect to have a lot of demand brought upon them when working in a medical facility. Many different skills are required of a CNS. They are heavily involved in patient care and are a big part of the research process. They serve as problem solvers when working with medical staff to assess solutions for different patients. Their role in a medical facility is similar to a nurse practitioner, but much more involved. Most will handle the research and educational functions to ensure patients receive the best care from the nursing staff.

Job Requirements

In order to seek out a position as a clinical nurse specialist, it is required that the CNS have a master’s degree. It is also necessary to first be licensed as a registered nurse in the state where you will be working. As a CNS, you will constantly be training. It is important that a CNS keep up with training courses and current trends since they perform extensive research. A certified nurse specialist will also have to fulfill certain continuing education requirements to be able to keep their license current.

Salary Expectations

The typical salary range for a CNS is anywhere between $74,545 and $88,168. There is a large range in the lower and higher end of the spectrum. This is due to the level of experience. Experience plays a big part in the decision of your salary. So, a starting CNS should expect to receive the lower end of the spectrum. Location also plays a big role in salaries. A CNS will also receive good benefits that include medical coverage and paid vacation and sick days. Depending on the type of environment they work in, they may receive a flexible work schedule.

Job Outlook

Fortunately, there is a great need for clinical nurse specialists because it is such a complex occupation. Most CNS’s have a specialty or focus that makes them experts on this subject matter. This is why they are in high demand. Although it requires much schooling, a clinical nurse specialist can be an excellent career choice that offers much stability.