CNS role in women's health promotion and maintenance in a collaborative practice

The clinical nurse specialist (CNS) has an instrumental role in health promotion and maintenance for women. In the obstetrical/gynecological private practice setting, working in collaboration with a physician and other healthcare providers, the CNS has the opportunity to exercise the subroles of clinician, educator, consultant, and researcher. The CNS, as primary caregiver, can be influential in meeting the guidelines of Healthy People 2000 and implementing the interventions suggested in the Guide to Clinical Preventative Services for women.