Clinical Nurse Specialist in Pediatric Nursing Certification
This is a computer-based test (CBT)
Application and Pricing (PDF: 326KB)
Description of Practice
The Clinical Nurse Specialist in Pediatrics (CNS) is a registered nurse prepared in a graduate level pediatric clinical
nurse specialist program or an accepted equivalent to provide advanced care for children and their families. The
CNS demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the complexity of pediatric health care and problems as well as
advanced interventions to manage and improve care for the child and family. Using theory and research, the CNS’s
considers all influences on a child’s health status and the related psychosocial and behavioral problems arising from
the child’s altered physiological condition. The CNS practice occurs in diverse settings such as primary care, acute
care, community, rehabilitation, and long-term care and is actively engaged in education (e.g. patient, staff, students,
and colleagues), case management, expert clinical practice, consultation, research, and administration.
Eligibility Criteria
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Hold a current, active RN license in a state or territory of the United States or the professional, legally recognized equivalent in another country.
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Hold a master’s, post-master’s, or doctorate from a clinical nurse specialist in pediatrics program accredited by the Commission on the Collegiate of Nursing Education (CCNE) or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). A minimum of 500 faculty supervised clinical hours in the Pediatrics CNS role and specialty must be included in the educational program. This Pediatrics CNS program must include
course work in:advanced health assessment
advanced pharmacology
- advanced pathophysiology
All requirements must be completed prior to application for the examination.
Credential Awarded: PCNS-BC (Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist – Board Certified)
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