Can A CNS work as a staff nurse?

Specialties CNS

Published

Specializes in Emergency.

SO I got in to a CNS program. CNS was a long term goal but with the GI Bill running out a a few other things going on it seems like a good time to go to school.

However I have 2 young kiddos and am enjoying working per diem 1-2 days a week.

I am an ER nurse and I like it (dont love it, that's OK I love my other job-mommy)

But I see doing this ER Per diem gig for 5-7 more years. Then going back and finding a full time job I love CNS-the traditional role seems to be a good fit. I never wanted to be an NP so I am not interested in that aspect of the role.

My question if I get my Master's take the board and pass can I continue working as a staff per diem RN?

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

If you do so, you will be held to the standard of the highest license. I wouldn't do it.

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Specializes in Psychiatric Nursing.

What does it mean to work to the standard of the highest license? If you are hired as a staff nurse you have to meet the expectations of the staff nurse job description. Ie reviewing and implementing orders, etc. You are not the provider.

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Specializes in Psychiatric Nursing.

What does it mean to work to the standard of the highest license? If you are hired as a staff nurse you have to meet the expectations of the staff nurse job description. Ie assessing patients, reviewing and implementing orders, etc. You are not the provider.

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

You are held to the knowledge base of your license. For instance, I'm an adult and peds CNS wo works in nephrology. If I was to go back to my ER staff nurse position and the ER MD ordered a med that I as an APN should know is contraindicated I would be just as liable as th ordering MD. I would also beheld to the higher assessment skills.

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Specializes in nursing education.

So in other words, the expectations and liability would be higher, but not the pay...

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If you do so, you will be held to the standard of the highest license. I wouldn't do it.

What if you only have the certification (e.g. ACNS-BC) but Not the APN state license?

Are you still held to your highest certification (even if you do Not have the APN state license)?

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Yes, because you have the education. I would certainly obtain that would cover you.

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Specializes in ACNP-BC, Adult Critical Care, Cardiology.

See: http://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/506277_7

Note: you have to log in to Medscape or create an account.

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Specializes in Psychiatric Nursing.

Call the insurance company. might not cost much more if you are not prescribing.

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I have seen other professionals work as Rn when holding APRN which includes CNS as long as your RN license is active and in good standing. agree with the others, get the insurance coverage.

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Why is it so hard to find a CNS degree program?

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