Question

What are the differences between the clinical nurse specialist role versus the APN role in primary care?

Answer 1

Both APN and Clinical Nurse Specialist must obtain a Master degree in Nursing or doctorate in nursing practice, but their roles differ. Advanced practice Nurses must choose their role which suits them. APN focus on expert practice and improve the bedside care. They act as a consultant, educator, and Manager. They have authority to prescribe medications. They can work autonomously and involved in assessments, the order of diagnostic tests, diagnosing the condition, performing the procedure, treating the patient, prescribe the medication within the scope of practice.

Clinical Nurse Specialist involved in direct patient care, staff education, and management of Macrosystem, care of complex conditions, care of vulnerable populations, and support interprofessional staff to provide optimum care through evidence-based practices. They also conduct research in improving the overall health system. They work in wide variety of specialized setting.

Both APN and CNS need to be certified and licensed. CNS must focus their role more on Evidence-based practice, administrative and research program. Whereas the APN focus on direct patient care. But the ultimate goal of both of them in primary care settings is the best possible outcomes by evaluating the patient and improving the overall health care.