Credentialing and certification: issues for clinical nurse specialists

This article will provide a brief overview of the concepts of credentialing and certification and will identify some of the issues around certification and credentialing for clinical nurse specialists (CNSs). The article will also describe some of the misconceptions about certification and licensure that cause problems to CNSs, identify the current questions on the debated regulation of CNSs, and outline some of the proactive steps that can be taken to stay ahead of the current wave of change anticipated with the suggested changes in the forthcoming regulation of CNSs. Information provided is pertinent for new graduates and seasoned CNSs and provides an opportunity for both to gain a better understanding of certification and credentialing.