A Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is a senior nursing position that has specialised knowledge in acute care. A CNS’s role involves using research to improve clinical practice, leading and educating staff, and analysing complex health problems in their chosen field. In order to become a clinical nurse, you will typically need to complete a postgraduate qualification, or demonstrate signficant experience in your area of practice.
Are you a registered nurse aiming to advance your career? Becoming a clinical nurse might be a suitable career move for you. It is a challenging rewarding job that provides you with an opportunity to tailor your career path according to the field of medicine you are most passionate about.
Read on to know more about clinical nursing, the roles and responsibilities of a clinical nurse and what you can expect from this highly specialised healthcare profession.
A clinical nurse is part of the senior nursing staff that work within the acute care sector. Their primary role is to observe changes and health deterioration, interpret clinical data, diagnose and analyse complex health problems, and determine a treatment plan for seriously ill or injured patients. A CNS acts as the leader in their specialised area, and are responsible for devising clinical best practice, through evidence based research.
On a daily basis, a clinical nurse will:
A clinical nurse can choose to specialise on varying areas of medicine, such as cardiology, gynaecology, neuroscience, oncology, paediatrics and many more. They can also be assigned to practice in emergency rooms. And so depending on the area you specialise in, your role as a CNS may vary between fields.
The role of a clinical nurse is ideal for individuals who are passionate about nursing, have strong clinical skills, thrive in dynamic healthcare environments, and possess a genuine desire to make a positive impact on patients’ lives. Alongside a solid foundation and comprehensive understanding of nursing and patient care, there are several key skills that are particularly valuable for clinical nurses:
To become a clinical nurse in Australia, you need to have a Bachelor of Nursing degree or equivalent and be registered as a nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
In addition, a clinical nurse will be expected to have signifcant experience in their feild, and some employers may require additional qualifications such as a postgraduate degree or a specialty certification. These credentials can enhance your knowledge and skills in your chosen field and improve your career prospects.
It’s worth noting that requirements can vary depending on the state or territory in which you plan to work, and some employers may have specific requirements for their roles. It’s always best to check with the relevant regulatory body or employer for their specific qualifications and requirements.
According to Talent.com, the average annual salary for a clinical nurse is $105,000, equivalent to an hourly rate of $53.75. Entry-level clinical nurses typically earn around $100,000 per year, while highly skilled clinical nurses can anticipate earning approximately $130,000 annually.
It’s important to note that salaries may vary depending on the state or territory in which a clinical nurse practices. Additionally, the level of clinical nursing skills and practical experience plays a significant role in determining the nurse’s salary, with greater expertise and experience typically leading to higher compensation.
Since clinical nursing is a highly specialised nursing field, it provides a great opportunity to pursue the field of medicine you are most passionate about.
Some of the top choices for specialisation include adult psychiatric and mental health, child/adolescent psychological and mental health, diabetes management, gerontology, paediatrics, and public and community health.
Specialised clinical nurses are in high demand, and your desirability as a professional will grow along with your experience. It is a great way to further your career in the healthcare sector, while still providing direct care with patients.