Recognising the clinical nurse specialist role

Kai Tiaki: Nursing New Zealand, Dec, 2008

The numbers of clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), both internationally and in New Zealand, continue to grow, according to Christchurch Women's Hospital gynaecological/oncology CNS Glynis Cumming. In the last decade, in two Christchurch hospitals alone, CNS numbers have grown from 14 to 47, while 12 new CNS positions have recently been established at MidCentral District Health Board.

"However, there are no set qualifications for the role, no agreed competencies and no defined clinical career pathway," Cumming said. "CNSs need to know where they fit in the advanced nursing framework. This is an advanced role that is not being properly recognised."

CNSs are invited to attend a one-day seminar/conference in Christchurch next June. The event will focus on the differences CNSs make in the clinical environment and how those differences can be quantified. The seminar will also investigate the possibility of achieving national recognition of the role and to forming a CNS association. Around 130 CNSs had already expressed interest in attending the event, Cumming said. For further information, email Dawn Sutton at Kevin_dawn.sutton@clear.net.nz as soon as possible.