A Clinical Nurse Specialist is an advanced-practice expert who provides patient care and consultation services for a variety of health care areas. These Clinical Nurses may specialize in oncology, pediatrics, geriatrics, psychiatric/mental health, adult health, acute/critical care, and community health programs. In addition to working in speciality areas, Clinical Nurse Specialists engage in teaching, mentoring, consulting and research for their fellow colleges and patients.
Clinical Nurse Specialist candidates are registered nurses who have a master’s or doctoral level degree. As a Clinical Nurse Specialist be prepared to take on a lead role. Candidates will be expected to not only serve as a mentor to other nursing professionals but serve as a consultant to other nurses and multidisciplinary health care team members. Candidates will also demonstrate professional leadership by taking an active role in the formulation and implementation of policies at the community, state and national levels.
When preparing for your interview you'll need to be able to speak to the specialized experience in your resume. Make sure you've done your homework on the facility and how you will fit into the team. Clinical Nurse Specialists are known to hold leadership roles based on their years of experience. Did your team win awards or get recognized for its accomplishments? If you are an experienced supervisor let the interviewer know how you led your team to its success.