Administrative preparation of clinical nurse specialists

A study is reported in which the authors examined the administrative preparation needs of a sample of 46 graduates of a clinical nurse specialist program who were surveyed 3 to 5 years after graduation. The study focused on three areas: current administrative responsibilities, administrative content in the graduate curriculum, and respondents' future goals for involvement in administration. Findings showed that the respondents' highest levels of current participation were in planning and policy functions (51 per cent) with a low overall involvement in other administrative functions. Eighty-five per cent of graduates felt that the master's degree nursing program should have allowed for more content in administration. A majority (54 per cent) had enhanced their skills in administration on the job or through continuing education. Twenty-five per cent planned a career focus on administration within 5 years. Study implications concerning future curricular priorities and pathways are discussed.