ENA has taken an active role in issues related to advanced practice nursing, such as development and validation of competencies and skills for clinical nurse specialists in emergency care. According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Consensus Model for APRN Regulation, an APRN is a licensed independent practitioner who is expected to practice within standards established or recognized by a licensing body. The Consensus Model identifies four APRN roles: nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner. APRNs share many competencies, but the focus of practice is different for each role. In addition to being an expert direct care clinician ranging from primary provider to consultant, clinical nurse specialists are experts in the synthesis, integration, transformation and translation of best practices to facilitate bridging the gap between research and practice. Competent CNS practice ensures quality and safe patient care both directly and indirectly. This area houses resources that may assist the clinical nurse specialist in facilitating his or her role.
Advanced Practice in Emergency Nursing
CNS Competencies
Additional CNS Resources