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Discussion

CNS vs NP

I was interested in obtaining my CNS in Adult/Ger, but it is looking like there are few graduate programs for this pathway available. Is this field in poor demand, as apposed to the NP or CNL role?

The NP role does not appeal to me, and I understand it is moving towards the need to obtain a Doctorate degree in the future.

Any help, advice or direction would be greatly appreciated.

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    • Featured Replies

    I will reply on what I know/heard through the grapevine. I have "heard" that the CNS is being phased out but that probably depends on your specialty.

    On the 2nd point, the DNP is not currently required nor is there any great rush to move to that direction, although you'll find fewer schools offering the MSN so it may get there by attrition. I talked to the AACN before I started my program and what I was told is that if the DNP was required in the future I would be grandfathered in unless I let my license lapse or I moved to a state that would somehow require it.

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    • Expert

    Hi there - I'm an adult health and a peds CNS. I'm in the APRN role.

    Its important before you decide on your MSN that you decide what path you want to pursue: education, change agent, bedside expert, advanced practice.

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    I would say it is in poor demand in comparison to the other roles. Nps are used in the community and hospital as are nurse managerS ..... Cns are not in our area. I think we have 5 at my hospital . .... One is a np who couldn't get a job and now lives her job so is getting a post grad certificate and two other were hired with expectation they will get their masters . Not a job I'm interested in but I do think there are jobs out there...

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    • Author

    Thank you all for your input. I also am finding in my research the lack of options for the CNS. I value all of the suggestions, and have found the CNL track to be of great interest and growth promise.

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    I graduated with a CNL, and love all of the growth and momentum that I am seeing in this field.

    The CNL has a broader scope of practice than that of a bedside expert”. The CNL is an advanced nurse who brings a Masters level education and specialization of the healthcare system to the unit level, (the microsystem).

    I used the MSN/CNL education as a springboard for my FNP DNP. I'm very happy with what I've learned so far. It's been a very good preparation.

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