Question

2. While Joan is in with Mr. Owens, Judy Collins, the clinical nurse specialist (CNS), enters the room to check on Mr. Owens. After Judy leaves, Mr. Owens asks Joan what the difference is between a CNS and a regular nurse. What is the best response for Joan to give to Mr. Owens?

A. A CNS is an advanced practice nurse who is an expert in a specialized area of nursing.
B. She has a higher degree, that's all.
C. She is considered the manager of the unit.
D. A CNS does the same things as a physician.

Answer 1

A Clinical Nurse Specialist is an advanced practice nurse with graduate education and specialized training, not equivalent to a physician but with the ability to perform certain complex tasks in nursing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice nurse who has completed graduate-level education (Master's or Doctorate) and has advanced clinical training. CNSs specialize in a particular area of nursing practice, such as critical care, pediatrics, geriatrics, oncology, or cardiology, to name a few. They differ from regular registered nurses (RNs) in that they often take on roles such as education, research, and management, in addition to providing direct patient care. CNSs may also have prescriptive authority and the ability to perform complex diagnostic and therapeutic procedures that are typically associated with medical practice.

To address Mr. Owens' question, a more accurate distinction would be that while a CNS is qualified to perform many complex tasks and offer expertise within their specialization, they do not perform the same full scope of duties as a physician. Physicians have attended medical school and have broader authority and responsibilities in diagnosing, treating, and managing all aspects of patient care across a wide range of specialties.