Clinical Nurse Specialist serves as a clinical expert providing teaching, mentoring, consulting, research, and systems improvement in a specific practice area or with a specific patient population. Coordinates and guides clinical activities/projects of nurses within a practice area. Being a Clinical Nurse Specialist collaborates with members of the health care team to design and implement safe, cost-effective, and evidence-based care strategies. May require a master's degree in nursing. Additionally, Clinical Nurse Specialist requires Registered Nurse (RN) License. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. The Clinical Nurse Specialist manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. To be a Clinical Nurse Specialist typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1-3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)
Responsible for assessing a healthcare facility's nursing practice and its impact on patient outcomes. Provides clinical direction to nursing staff in the delivery of patient care programs. Ensures nursing staff maintains an established level of clinical competency. Relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Leads and directs the work of others. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected.
MINIMAL ACCEPTABLE JOB QUALIFICATIONS
Registration/Certification/Licensure:
Current state licensure as a RN; CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) within three (3) months of hire.
Experience:
Five years of direct experience working in an acute care setting as a RN;
Education:
Masters degree in Nursing required; Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
JOB KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:
1) Demonstrates working knowledge of the English language, verbal and written.
2) Demonstrates extensive knowledge of patient care policies, procedures and equipment utilized and strong knowledge of
applicable regulations for assigned division and other patient care units.
3) Demonstrates knowledge of management theory and practice to effectively lead unit associates.
4) Requires in-depth working knowledge of the normal growth, development, related behaviors, needs, comfort, and range of treatment appropriate to the age (including neonate, child, adolescent, aging adult) and diagnosis of patient served to
support the provision of an individualized interdisciplinary plan of care.
5) Requires strong analytical and organization skills in order to direct and coordinate activities in assigned division, effectively develop staff, develop and monitor budget, short and long range planning and solve complex technical and human resource
problems to ensure optimal development and maintenance of division services.
6) Demonstrates a high level of interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively interact with all internal and external unit customers, as needed.
7) Requires ability to coordinate services by coordination with colleagues, physicians and community organizations.