CNS V. NP

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Specializes in ICU.

Hi all.

I am so happy that I just received my RN license today, and ready to start working in the ICU field. I'm always looking forward, and could someone explain the difference between Clinical Nurse Specialist and Nurse Practitioner. In school, we learned that they are all APRN, but which one is the best way to go, specially for me wanting to specialize in CRITICAL CARE? I do want obtain my DNP eventually. I read that DNP is a degree, while NP are just certifications. But if I get my CCRN, does it really matter if I get a NP in critical care certification? Need a little breaking down please. Thanks.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, High-Risk L&D, Antepartum, L.

Honestly, the CNS seems to be fading. I would stick with an NP. NP isn't the degree the MSN or DNP you obtain with it ha and the NP a certification.

Adult ICU? I would look at adult/geri NP.

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Specializes in Geriatrics, Hospice.

I think you may have to sit down and really do some in depth research. The NP role is completely different than the RN role. If you want to continue doing bedside nursing and would just like to become more knowledgeable in critical care, getting your CCRN and CNS may be the route to go although as the poster above said, CNS is really fading out. If you want to move into a role that involves being the primary care provider of your patients and seeing them in a very similar role as physicians, the NP would be the route to go.

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