Integration of the clinical nurse specialist into the nurse case manager role

The focus of healthcare is changing from treatment of illness to promoting optimal wellness in a cost-effective manner. With this change, the role of the nurse also must change. The traditional role of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is being eliminated from many hospitals, leaving a gap is nursing expertise. The role of the nurse case manager (NCM) is developing rapidly. A logical movement is for the CNS to move into the NCM role. Because of distinct differences between these roles, the CNS must learn new skills. This paper discusses the role differences between the NCM and the CNS and suggests areas of education needed to make a successful transition. But more importantly than just learning new skills, the CNS must undergo a transformation in perspective to function in the new reality of managed care.