Clinical Nurse Leader ( CNL)

[missmaddie, BSN, RN]

Hello!

So I started this new job and they have a Clinical Nurse Leader, which is actually being filled by a CNS. But what exactly is a Clinical Nurse Leader? I see you can get a MSN-CNL degree, but most people are getting those to practice as an RN?

Just trying to educate myself on this CNL thing!

Thanks :)

[WestCoastSunRN, MSN, CNS]

I think the answer is, a CNL is whatever the hiring institution says it is. I could be wrong but I think CNL programs tend to be more administration-focused than CNS programs which are clinically focused. To my knowledge there is really a huge difference between a CNS and a CNL. The CNS is an APRN. CNL is not. I'm guessing your CNS who is filling the CNL role is doing so because that institution doesn't have a CNS role (a shame). But maybe it's actually a robust role at your hospital. Hopefully so.

[pro-student]

The best way to think of the CNL is that it expands your education but not scope of practice. One of the main ideas behind the CNL is the idea of "horizontal leadership" meaning being a leader within your unit/facility/clinic without necessarily having a leadership title. Since the MSN-CNL programs often include advanced training in pathophys and pharm this may mean being a resource person on your unit other nurses go to when they have questions (although these people are generally sought out because of their experience rather than any specific training or degree). CNLs may also include various initiative and projects as part of their work such as those focused on cost effectiveness, quality improvement, or evidence-based practices. But as WestCoastSunRN mentioned, what a CNL role is will be whatever the employer thinks it should be (within the RN scope of practice).

[missmaddie, BSN, RN]

Thank you!