Clinical Nurse Specialist Role and Practice

Book excerpt: Developed under the direction of the International Council of Nurses (ICN), this book is part of a series exploring advanced practice globally. It is the first known volume to provide an international view of the advanced practice role of clinical nurse specialist (CNS). It features an in-depth examination of advanced speciality practice in nursing, and the advanced practice role of the clinical CNS. Content includes models of practice, core practice competencies, curricular recommendations, practice outcomes, and regulatory requirements related to scope of practice. The CNS role and practice as implemented in North America, Europe, Asia and Oceania are examined in the context of the country’s healthcare system, educational traditions and regulatory requirements. Exemplars describe role implementation in various specialty practices and discuss how the role is implemented to advance nursing and improve clinical and fiscal outcomes. Measurement and evaluation of CNS practice in the context of countries and health care systems are examined. For practicing CNSs, this book provides an in-depth examination of the role from the global perspective; for administrators it provides a foundational understanding of the CNS role and practice and performance expectations. Educators will use the book as a resource for curriculum development, whereas students will offers an expanded global view of the role. Advanced practice roles, including the CNS, are continuing to evolve. This book makes important contributions to a global understanding of the CNS role.