The role of the clinical nurse specialist as clinician and advocate in a primary health care clinic.

The clinical nurse specialist (CNS) functions as an expert clinician to disseminate knowledge and apply evidence-based practice in his or her role. The framework of CNS practice competencies (patient, nurse, and system) reflects an opportunity to advocate for disadvantaged and underserved populations when providing care. Strategies, techniques, and tools to advance CNS practice in the primary care setting are discussed.