Collaborative practice in the acute care setting

As acute care nurse practitioners (ACNPs) become increasingly visible in tertiary care centers, clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) have begun to re-evaluate their unique contributions to patient care. While CNSs continue to be involved in indirect care provision, their direct care role is encountering increasing competition for the same patients from ACNPs. This article reviews the evolution of the ACNP and CNS roles and offers practical advice to both professionals on working together successfully, compatibility, and cohesively in an acute care setting.