I'm first!

It's great to read the posts in this thread and see that there is a new generation of nurses stepping up to the plate to tackle the CNS role. (Forgive the mixed sports metaphors, please.)

I am an old CNS from way back -- got my first CNS position in 1981, in fact. Over the years, I've had a variety of CNS roles, each slightly different than the other and I have never regretted choosing that career path. I even came back to a CNS role after earning my PhD.

Lately, my hospital has had terrible difficulty finding people to fulfill the CNS role. Most newer Master's graduates are graduating as PNP's (I work at a children's hospital) and are not interested in a role that includes so much staff education, committee work, etc. Most just want to see patients all day and not get involved in "keeping the institution running" and "supporting the staff nurses." They are not willing to give up their overtime pay to take a salaried positioned and they are not willing to work 5 days a week (instead of three 12-hour shifts). It's been very disheartening and the jobs are going unfilled. Of course, that leaves the remaining CNS's and staff development folks left very short staffed. It can be such a great role and yet it seems as if no one aspires to do it any more.

As I said above, I am just so happy to see that there are at least a few people interested in the role! I am thrilled to have you all as my colleagues.

llg

Gee llg, count ME in! I am looking for a role that is 5 days a week, full time, primarily education and support of staff nurses! I wish they'd hire me!

That's a kind thing to say, llg, you boosted my morale a bit I look forward to practicing in the CNS role. I'm in my last semester of classes (ends in a month), I only have 96 of 500 practicum hours left. I take my comps in Feb. or March and graduate in May. It's encouraging to hear that jobs are out there.

Linda

I currently work in hematology as a NP....it was harder to find a job as a NP than as a CNS in the same area. Some places even asked if I would take the CNS role instead.

NPs want to work as NPs not necessarily as CNSs for which we do not have the eduational or clinical experiences. It is interesting how so many places ask for a CNS or NP as if we are interchangeable.