Keywords

clinical nurse specialist, NACNS

 

Authors

  1. BALDWIN, KATHLEEN M. PhD, RN, CEN, CCRN, ANP, GNP
  2. BURNS, PAULETTE G. PhD, RN

Abstract

Purpose/Objectives: Online educational programs are rapidly increasing in all fields. This article describes a private university's online clinical nurse specialist graduate program that included supervised clinical practicum experiences.

 

Methods: The program was designed using the 1998 National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) Statement on Clinical Nurse Specialist Practice and Education as a curriculum guide. Issues that occur with online program development/design, implementation, and evaluation are described and solutions are presented.

 

Conclusions: The online education program for clinical nurse specialists faced challenges; however, faculty and students agreed that this innovative program is a success.