Clinical Nurse Specialist, Trauma

[AKBB22]

Hi all! I am starting to research online Master's programs. Of particular interest to me are schools that offer CNS, specifically with a Trauma/Critical Care focus. Does anyone have any information you could offer? My ultimate goal is education in the ED. I looked at WGU's MSN/Education program, but there wasn't a ton of clinical teaching involved. I would like to focus on clinical aspects and evidenced based practice, because I feel you still have the opportunity to teach with that kind of knowledge. Learning the history of nursing education is important, but I am not sure if I will come out feeling anymore prepared to help others. Any advice would be appreciated!

[Corey Narry, MSN, RN, NP]

Hi and welcome to allnurses.

Since your interest is in the CNS role with a well defined specialty such as Trauma and Critical Care focus, you may have a hard time finding an online program specifically targeted to this field. One thing you should think about is how the CNS scope of practice and certification requirements are interpreted in your state.

In many states, in order to receive state designation as a CNS, you must have attended a formal CNS program not any Master's degree in Nursing and certainly not one with a Nursing Education focus. Also be aware that in terms of national certification as a CNS with ANCC and AACN, you must also have attended a CNS program that meets the practicum hour requirements.

Also, even though staff development and education in a healthcare setting is part of the traditional CNS role, in some states CNS's are entitled to provider privileges similar to a nurse practitioner. For these reasons, I would strongly consider a CNS program if this is your area of interest and I'm unfortunately unaware that online programs exist in this field.

I do know of a specific, well established Adult Trauma and Critical Care CNS program that is not offered online here: Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Critical Care/Trauma (AGCNS-CCT) | UCSF School of Nursing

[AKBB22]

Thanks for the reply! Helps a lot!