I just returned from the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialist's Conference in Portland, Oregon.  I applaud the efforts of the NACNS for focusing on the importance of clinical nurse specialists and their role in bringing evidence-based practice to the bedside.  The speakers were not afraid to share their triumphs and their lessons learned with the attendees.  In this economic climate, sometimes the CNS role is the first one to be cut.  What came through loud and clear was the impact the CNS has in improving nursing practice and improving patient outcomes.  Speakers Beverly Malone, PhD, RN, FAAN, Linda Burnes Bolton, DrPH, RN, FAAN, and Melanie Duffy, MSN, RN, CCRN, CCNS spoke about clinical nurse specialists and their roles as consultants and leaders as we shape the healthcare system.

For all you CNS's out there, and for that matter, all nurses who didn't have a chance to attend this conference, I urge you to think twice next year.  As an NP attending this conference, I found it refreshing to hear real life experiences of nurses and advanced practice nurses pushing limits to benefit their patients.  This forward thinking is what healthcare should be all about.