The role of the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is to provide clinical expertise for evidence-based practice within the specialty of Rheumatology. Through autonomous practice they develop, implement and evaluate programs of care to maximize outcomes for patient-specific and rheumatologic populations. As direct care providers they complete comprehensive assessments, diagnoses and treatment plans for those with rheumatic conditions.
What does the Clinical Nurse Specialist do?
A CNS is an advanced practitioner who works in a particular specialty, for example, rheumatology. The CNS provides specialty care through:
- Assessment of the patient
- Education
- Role modeling
- Team building
- Quality improvement and research
- Leadership
- Evidence based practice
- Care coordination
- Patient advocacy
Where does the Clinical Nurse Specialist work?
- Hospital units
- Outpatient clinics
- Private practice
- Rehabilitation centers and long-term care facilities
- Home health agencies
- Public health centers
What kind of training does the Clinical Nurse Specialist have?
- A CNS is a registered nurse with advanced training at the master's or doctorate level
- CNS is not the same as a Nurse Practitioner
- CNS educational curriculum contains courses in advanced health assessment, physiology, advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, advanced therapeutics and specialty preparation, as well as research methodology and utilization
- Regulated by both state and federal laws, CNS’s are licensed as registered nurses in the states in which they practice
This information is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnoses and treatment of a medical or health condition.