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Discussion

Thinking of getting my NP or CNS, but which?

I'm currently a student working on my BSN, but intend to further my education. I have been doing a lot of research on the programs, but can not seem to find much about the difference other than the setting. I really would love to be the seeing physician at a small ER. The hospital I currently work at has two NPs that work shifts in the ER. Could I do the same thing as a CNS? This may seem like a silly question, but many of my professors can't quite explain it either. Thanks guys!

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    • Expert

    I'm sure there are other differences and if so hopefully some of our resident expert CNS' will respond but the main thing I'm aware of is that in most states CNS' can't prescribe medication. In my area that means in psych the CNS' are relegated to working as a social worker/therapist and they make considerably less money that those of us who can prescribe.

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    • Expert

    Jules is correct. I work in IL where CNS=NP as to scope of practice. The big difference I see (which may or may not come to pass) is that if/when the Consensus Model and LACE are adopted by all states, NPs may be relegated to either outpt practice (FNP, AGNP) or inpt (ACNP, PACNP).

    As a CNS (both adults and peds) my clinicals included both inpt and outpt experiences) so I will still be able to see all ages everywhere.

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    CNS can prescribe in 36 states. When I went for my masters it was before the psych NP came along and we had to resort to being "grandfathered."

    The CNS credential needs an overhaul if it is to continue.

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    • Author

    I live in OK and plan to stay here to practice. CNS are allowed to prescribe medication, but not independently. Thank you guys for your input. Its been very helpful.

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    • Expert
    I live in OK and plan to stay here to practice. CNS are allowed to prescribe medication, but not independently. Thank you guys for your input. Its been very helpful.

    Can CNS there prescribe everything? I think in a nearby state here CNSs are not able to prescribe narcotics, benzos or stimulants.

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    • Author

    They are only allowed to prescribe Schedule III-V drugs. You can only prescribe them for 30 days or less. This still requires an overseeing physician. Everything I've seen says that a CNS here can prescribe benzos, but narcotics and stimulants are off a no go.

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    In the 5 states Where I have active licenses and can practice as an APRN I can prescribe benzos and stimulants. As a psych aprn narcotics are not in my scope of practice. I have no special time frames or restrictions because I am a CNS. Sounds state specific.

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