Clinical Nurse Leader

firstinfamily, RN · Oct 9, 2014

I believe what you are looking for is a CNS=Clinical Nurse Specialist. It is on the MSN level. I know of one nurse who finished a program in this, she was the charge nurse when I had her acquaintance. She had to do so many clinical hours in addition to the classroom work. CNS are very much in demand and make as much if not more than a NP, depending on the area you specialize and geographical location. The one I know is now the clinical manager for a unit in acute hospital setting. Some MDs are looking at Clin Specs for their practices. It would be a great field of nursing to go into and most likely will be in demand for quite some time. Good luck!!

meanmaryjean, DNP, RN · Oct 9, 2014

Clinical Nurse Leader is a specialty employed primarily by the VA (Veterans Administration). I've yet to see a job posting for one outside that system.

I would have to respectfully disagree in part with the above poster. CNS is not the same as an NP in many states yet, and if you are in one of those states, it is less in demand. Having said that, my large hospital employs them- but I don't know of ANY physicians who would (given the scope of practice in my state)

lunar11 · Oct 17, 2014

I'm currently enrolled in an advanced generalist masters program which will also allow me to sit for certification as a CNL. The role is still developing, but could be become quite influential as hospitals recognize the benefit of having a CNL on staff. I would recommend becoming a CNL although it will require some employer education on what you would provide as a licensed CNL. Remember, a CNL is not a manager. The CNL is the a patient care leader.

"The CNL provides leadership at the point of care focusing on outcomes measurement, risk assessment, quality improvement, interprofessional communication and evidence based practice."

APRN., DNP, RN, APRN, NP · Oct 26, 2014

Texas Health system just announced that they are in the process of hiring 120 Clinical Nurse Leaders.

.......Its coming!

Rean87 · Dec 17, 2014

Thanks for the input everyone. I'm currently in TX so hearing about the new job opportunities is promising. I'm going to do more research before I make any changes though. :)

Frotastic · Jan 9, 2015

I agree with lunar11, the CNL role has the potential to grow substantially, especially on the West Coast! I have a professor who works as a CNL at a county hospital, so although most CNLs work at VA hospitals, you wouldn't be limited to just VA work. With that being said, I recently completed my MSN-CNL program and really think that it what has set me apart from other students when applying to jobs. In all my cover letters, I talked about the CNL role and have landed 2 interviews at really great teaching hospitals. Best of luck to you Rean87!

apputney · Mar 7, 2015

I am also in an MSN FNP program and I have been looking at their CNL program. I have been reading up on it, and it appears that the clinical nurse leader is a new role like a CNS, but more of a generalist. It will be interesting to see how it develops and is adopted. I am unsure if I want to be an FNP (which in my eyes is like a doctor). I think I would rather be an expert nurse. I have time before making the change. Any other thoughts out there??

ShantheRN, BSN, RN · Mar 26, 2015

I'm starting my CNL program this fall, and I chose it for similar reasons that apputney mentioned! I'm just worried about the job market.....but I know I wouldn't be happy in the FNP role.