Transitioning Into Practice: Reflections and Advice for the New Clinical Nurse Specialist.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: The purposes of this article are to explore the shared experiences and feelings of clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) who were new to the role and to identify strategies that were helpful in making the transition.

DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT/PROGRAM: Transitioning to a CNS role may be challenging and emotional, causing fear or anxiety. The authors reflected on their experiences of transitioning into CNS practice.

OUTCOME

Reflection on the literature led to advice and helpful strategies for new CNSs as they transition into practice.

CONCLUSION

The strategies identified can be used to develop a structured orientation that may ease the transition into the CNS role.