Mission

The Clinical Nurse Specialist provides clinical and research expertise for patients participating in clinical research studies conducted by investigators within the Intramural Research Program at the National Institutes of Health. The CNS assists in providing support for the design, coordination, implementation and dissemination of clinical and research activities, with a focus on patient safety, continuity of care and informed participation. They also provide national leadership for the clinical and research endeavors.

CNS Spheres of Influence

This diagram is based upon the Statement on Clinical Nurse Specialist Practice and Education developed by the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists.

Scope of Practice

The focus of the CNS role is on the development and implementation of clinical practice standards and care delivery innovations to:

• Improve the outcomes experienced by Clinical Center patients within a program of care
• Assure the quality, relevance and integrity of research data collected in clinical studies conducted at the CC
• Demonstrate expert skills in assessing the research evidence related to possible practice changes and in implementing pilot tests to assess the effectiveness of new clinical strategies
• Participate actively in the ongoing scientific dialogue within the IC research teams associated with specialty practice area
• Serve as a consultant to Clinical Center staff related to clinical care
• Serve as a mentor and role model for clinical staff interested in expanded roles within a research setting
• Serve as a consultant to the professional community based on area of expertise
• Disseminate innovations and findings to the professional community at large

Role of CNS at National Institutes of Health

The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice nurse with graduate preparation and experience in a particular clinical practice specialty area, e.g. pediatrics, critical care, oncology, neuroscience, etc. The CNS is a senior member of the interdisciplinary team within a “program of care” as well as within the leadership structure of nursing and patient care services and the Clinical Center at large.

From left: Ellen Eckes, Georgie Cusack, Nonniekaye Shelburne, Kathy Feignebaum, Ann Peterson, Myra Woolery, Kate Castro, Dolores Elliott, Kim Cox, Gwen Wallen (Chief, Research and Practice Development Service), Mary Beth Price, and Nancy Ames.