- Nursing
- Nursing specialties
- Clinical nurse specialist
Clinical nurse specialist
A clinical nurse specialist has advanced knowledge and hands-on expertise in a chosen specialty.
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Required education
MSN or PhD
Varied
Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.
Managerial
Oversee other nurses and help improve healthcare for all.
Higher salary
Earn more by having advanced skills and responsibilities.
Patient-facing
Work hands-on, directly with patients.
Structured
Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.
What is the role of a clinical nurse specialist?
You’ll be a leader who’ll guide others and help make the workplace more efficient.
What you’ll do as a clinical nurse specialist
Education
You’ll teach and mentor other nurses.
Management
You’ll supervise nurses and other staff members.
Research
You’ll gather data and stay up to date with developments in your specialty.
Treatment
You’ll examine, diagnose and prescribe medication for patients, and create treatment plans with healthcare teams.
Where you’ll work as a clinical nurse specialist
Clinical nurse specialists work in a variety of settings, including:
- Community health centers
- Doctors’ offices
- Home care agencies
- Hospitals
- Mental health clinics
- Outpatient clinics
How to become a clinical nurse specialist
Get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.
Pass the NCLEX-RN and work as a Registered Nurse.
The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.
Get your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) offers advanced courses that will help you develop new skills and move into specialized roles.
Pass the National Nurses Licensing Exam.
Pass the Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist Exam.
You’re ready to work as a clinical nurse specialist!
Clinical nurse specialist career resources
Become a member of a clinical nurse specialist organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists
National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists
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