CNS and NP jobs

[ESnt16]

I have read a lot about the CNS role being phased out. However, I have been looking at jobs here in Georgia for CNSs and NPs, and I find interesting that there are more jobs available for CNSs than for NPs. I really like the idea of becoming a CNS (I am not interested in having prescriptive powers), but I am scared about what could happen by the time I finish my masters. I am also scared about the liability that comes with the NP role. Another option would be to get my masters in education and then a post grad certificate as FNP.

I am confused. I want to continue advancing in my career, a flexible schedule (M-F, 8-5), and the ability to practice bedside nursing (which I love).

I plan to start my masters degree in fall 2016 or spring 2017.

Any thoughts?

[Psychcns]

What jobs are being posted? I see a place for non NP advanced practice nursing but I am curious about jobs.

[evolvingrn, BSN, RN]

You can do the cns role as a fnp but you can not do the fnp role as a cns..... I would just get the fnp

[PG2018]

I think FNP is your best bet. You can still teach as you can with any degree, you can be a NP or simply APRN if you prefer, and you'll be more advanced with respect to assessment techniques, diagnostics, physiology, amd pharmacology compared with your peers. The CNS role is too ambiguous, IMO.

[ESnt16]

Thank you all!

[ESnt16]

There are some positions vacant now in Northeast Georgia Medical Center for CNS in neuro/ortho, peds and psych.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I am an adult and peds CNS (dual certified). In IL, where I practice, an FNP=me as to scope of practice. However, that is NOT true in all states.

I've been an APRN for almost 10 years now and yes, if I had to do it again, I would go the ACNP and PACNP route. I would NOT go the FNP route because I would want to work in-pt.

That is just my take on it. I always recommend nurses familiarize themselves with the Consensus Model and LACE which the AACN gurus (ie desk jockeys) have put out.

Consensus Model

The AACN makes recommendations and its up to the individual states to adopt it or not. So, after you read the Consensus Model, there is a state map to allow you to see which state has adopted it.

[evolvingrn, BSN, RN]

For sure the consensus model can and will change things. I am a fnp because I want normal hours. You can get that as an cns but rarely as a acnp. The way the cns function where I worked as a rn an fnp can do the job....heck we had nurses with non related masters in the position

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Just as an aside, like FNP, CNS is a protected title and if RNs are using the title CNS without the requisite education/certification, this should be brought to the attention of management.