[Oakstyn]

Hi, I'm new and I am thinking about going back to school to get my MSN to be a Clinical Nurse Leader, my bachlors degree was in an unrelated field. But I'm not exactly sure what the difference is between Clinical Nurse Leader and a RN? Also whats a starting wage for a CNL? Any info would be great, thanks ^^Kellee^^

[arciedee]

Here's a thread that I started about the CNL role:

http://allnurses.com/forums/f223/any...am-174028.html

Are you currently an RN or are you making a career change? I'm in a direct entry CNL MSN program, but a couple of my instructors went the traditional route to become CNLs.

For me, I know that we'll be starting our careers as regular RNs making regular RN pay. Some hospitals in my area are starting to create positions specifically for CNLs, but the more important emphasis of our program is that no matter what our job title that we will act as clinical nurse leaders. I decided to pursue my RN at this level because it was the same total length as an ADN program, but I'll be able to sit for the NCLEX after a year and a half, and it will give me greater flexibility in my career in terms of having the educational credentials to eventually teach or take roles that require the MSN. Hope this helps!

[Oakstyn]

thanks! and yes I am making a total career change. I just didn't know how CNL's ranked in the world of nursing.

[char2004]

Here is a link to press and journal articles on the Clinical Nurse Leader

http://www.aacn.nche.edu/CNL/PressReferences.htm

Here is the link to the spring CNL bulletin.

http://www.aacn.nche.edu/CNC/pdf/BulletinSpr.pdf

Also, the CNL Listserve is an excellent networking opportunity. Contact Horacio Oliveira at holiveira@aacn.nche.edu. Request to be added to the listserve and what email address you want messages sent to. Recently there have been discussion on how establishments are implementing the CNL role, salaries, etc.

Hope this helps some of you. Have a great day!