Nursing School Guide

The Gerontological CNS has an expert understanding of the dynamics, pathophysiology, and psychosocial aspects of aging. The Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gerontology (CNS) is a registered nurse prepared in a graduate level Gerontological clinical nurse specialist program to provide advanced care for older adults, their families, and significant others. Gerontological CNS work with the elderly population in hospitals, nursing homes, and doctors' offices. . The Gerontological CNS uses advanced diagnostic and assessment skills and nursing interventions to manage and improve patient care. Nursing home nurses also work with elderly patients, as well as some younger ones. Ailments extend from fractures to Alzheimer's, strokes to head injuries. These nurses provide the following:

• Assess patients fully
• Specialize in implementing treatment plans for chronic illnesses
• Develop treatment plans
• Provide support for both patients and their families
• Perform administrative duties

Using theory and research, the CNS's practice considers all influences on a patient's health status and the related psychosocial and behavioral problems arising from the patient's altered physiological condition. The Gerontological CNS practices in diverse settings and is actively engaged in education (e.g. patient, staff, students, and colleagues), case management, expert clinical practice, consultation, research, and administration.

EDUCATION:
The Geriatric Nurse has a master's, post-master, or doctorate from a clinical nurse specialist in gerontology 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 Gerontological CNS role and specialty must be included in the educational program. This Gerontological CNS graduate program must include course work in advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology.

SALARY:
Geriatric Nurses salary range is $52,000 to $62,000 depending on years of experience and location.

SOURCES:
American Nurse Credentialing Center, 2009
My Salary, 2009