Subspecialization within psychiatric consultation-liaison nursing

Specialization within health care is evolving in response to the proliferation of knowledge about disease treatment and health management. The practice of psychiatric consultation-liaison nursing in the acute care hospital is diversifying through subspecialization as a result of this trend. This article examines the concept of subspecialization within psychiatric consultation-liaison nursing practice. Subspecialization is presented as a safeguard for professional viability and as a hallmark of quality consumer care. Specialization has advantages and potential disadvantages for nursing practice. Strategies are described that maximize the benefits and minimize the disadvantages of subspecialization.