Case management: a model of CNS practice

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Advanced Practice Nursing

Background:

• Case management is an increasingly prevalent healthcare delivery model.
• The case manager role is central to the success of this model.
• Identifying the optimal professional for this role is crucial for effective implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the suitability of the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) for the case manager role.
• To delineate the alignment between CNS competencies and case management functions.
• To establish case management as a model of CNS advanced practice.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of the case manager role.
• Examination of CNS core competencies and role components.
• Literature review on case management and advanced practice nursing.

Main Results:

• The CNS possesses the requisite clinical expertise, judgment, and leadership for case management.
• CNSs effectively enact the five key components of the case manager role: expert practitioner, educator, consultant, researcher, and manager.
• Case management aligns with the advanced practice scope of the CNS.

Conclusions:

• The Clinical Nurse Specialist is exceptionally well-suited to function as a case manager.
• Case management represents a viable and effective model for CNS advanced practice.
• Integrating CNSs into case management roles can enhance healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.