Lessons learned from clinical nurse specialist longevity

This paper provides insight into issues related to longevity and retention of experienced clinical nurse specialists (CNS). To date, this phenomenon has received little attention in both clinical and administrative literature. To prepare for a national presentation on this component of advanced practice, the author questioned 12 professional colleagues who had practised in their role for over 10 years in the same setting. The CNS responses are described and critiqued and suggestions for support of veteran CNS are provided by the author.