Re: Not sure what I want to do.. ?
The role of the CNS varies widely from location to location. So, you'll have to check out their status in your town to find out that information.
Have you thought about a NICU Staff Development role? I was a NICU CNS/Staff Development specialist for several years ... running the orientation program, providing education to existing staff, writing the policies, coordinating the performance improvement activities, etc. That's one way to use a CNS degree. You can also do that type of role with an MSN in nursing education.
... Just thought I would throw that in. Staff Development is a specialty that a lot of people overlook. They are really nice jobs because you get the advantages of a nice schedule along with the ability to "stay clinically focused" as you work to improve care. However, in a Staff Development role, you don't have the headaches that the manager has with having to worry about who is going to cover for the people who call in sick, etc.
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