CNS same as CNL?

The CNL as it was explained to me (as Elkpark ssaid) is a clinical expert at the bedside. However, they are NOT APNs and will not prescribe, diagnose or treat as APNs do in IL

We've graduated two cohorts of CNLs now (n=49) in our master's entry (second degree) program at UVA. All new graduates have worked first in impatient setting as entry-level RNs. However, those in the first cohort (2007 graduates) report back that they are rising faster up the career ladder than their BSN-prepared colleagues at most hospitals. Many of the 2007 grads report back that they are taking part in practice-based studies, presenting posters at national conventions, and precepting CNL students.

Some of the 2007 graduates are applying for Post-Masters (or DNP) programs for APN education and certification now that they have an idea of what clinical area excites them.

We've been preparing CNS students for many years (we have more Critical Care & Adult Health CNS students than ACNP students, and more PMH CNS than PMHNP students). The CNL and CNS curriculum are different (the only overlapping courses are theory, research, epidemiology, health policy, and pathophysiology).

The two roles are very distinct, with different preparations as well. In theory, a CNL is prepared to improve care in a unit setting (outcomes, efficacy, cost efficiencies) with the focus on horizontal leadership. A CNS program is usually speciality based (diabetes, burn, infection control, trauma, neuro, cardiac, etc) with the emphasis on vertical leadership.

UVA - thanks for the update as to what your grads are seeing. There is much confusion about the CNS role still. In some states, a CNS is more like a CNL - not an APN. In other states, there is little difference between a CNS and NP.