Facts about Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs)
Who are CNSs?
CNSs are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses regulated under the Virginia Board of
Nursing. CNSs are authorized to provide advanced services according to their specialized
training from a graduate program in nursing, either at the master’s or doctoral levels.
CNSs are registered as CNSs by the Board of Nursing, separate and apart from holding a
license to practice as a Registered Nurse. In order to be registered, CNSs must
successfully complete a graduate-level clinical nurse specialist program within a
regionally accredited college or university that meets all educational qualifications and
standards established by national certification guidelines. CNSs must hold a certification
preparing them for the delivery of advanced nursing services.
What do CNSs do to improve the health of Virginians?
CNSs deliver specialty care, such as diabetes, mental health and pain management, to
patients & their families. They also educate nurses & other health professionals in
evidence-based specialty care. CNSs develop system-wide initiatives, based on research,
to improve the quality of care to for their specialty patient populations.
Where do CNSs practice?
CNSs work in hospitals, outpatient settings, free clinics, community health centers,
schools, universities, clinician offices, public health departments, long-term care
settings. In other words, just about wherever Virginians seek care.
How many CNSs are registered by the Virginia Board of Nursing?
As of June, 2016, there are 437 clinical nurse specialists in Virginia.
VACNS Mission:
To promote the role of the clinical nurse specialist as an advanced practice registered nurse in
Virginia, to improve systems of care, prevent disease, and enhance health
and well-being through evidence-based care of populations.