Certified Nurse Specialist

**Semantic type:** Biomedical Occupation or Discipline

**Definition:** An advanced practice RN who functions as a health care provider, educator, consultant, researcher, leader/administrator and/or case manager. It is the CNS who often sets the standards for quality patient care; trouble shoots problems and crises; anticipates complications and helps to prevent their development; and views the individual, family or group within the context of a whole system. The CNS usually has a specialty practice area such as diabetes, cardiology, respiratory, pediatrics or psychiatric-mental health.

**Synonyms:** - CNS