In previous columns, we reminded readers about the four branches of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), with the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) being one of them. CNSs have advanced clinical expertise in a specialized area where they work to improve outcomes through direct patient care, optimizing systems and organizations, and/or advancing nurses and nursing practice. Like other APRNs, CNSs are prepared with either a master’s or doctoral degree and diagnose, prescribe, and treat patients. CNS education programs include the “3 P’s” in their graduate courses: advanced pathophysiology, physical assessment, and pharmacology (APRN Consensus Work Group, 2008).

This quarter we would like to introduce Deborah Wright, an Oncology CNS with a passion for mentoring nurses and future APRNs at OU Health’s Stephenson Cancer Center (SCC). Deborah’s journey with SCC began in 2010. She recalls the early days of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) Phase I Clinical Trial Office, “Back then, the vision was to build a research program capable of bringing cutting-edge oncology treatments to Oklahoma, ensuring patients no longer had to travel out of state for access to life-saving clinical trials. Our partnership with the Sarah Cannon Research Institute became instrumental in turning that vision into reality, allowing us to offer the latest advancements in drug development and trial therapies locally.”

Deborah started as a research RN, working closely with patients and physicians to navigate the complexities of clinical trials. “As the program grew, so did my passion for advancing care and mentoring my peers. After completing graduate school, I transitioned into the role of APRN-CNS, applying my expertise not only at the chairside and seeing patients in our clinic but also in leadership and education. This shift allowed me to impact care at a systems level, focusing on quality improvement, patient outcomes, and the professional development of nursing staff.”

“Today, I am proud to be part of a program that ranks among the top three Phase I trial programs in the nation. The SCC has earned National Cancer Institute (NCI) status, reflecting our commitment to excellence and growth. I am proud to share that two of our research nurse/coordinators have started the MSN/CNS program at OU, our Clinical Director Marisha Williams, BSN, RN, OCN is completing her last year in the CNS program. Additionally, three oncology-certified RNs working in our Drug Development Unit/Infusion Center are all enrolled in their second year in the MSN/CNS track at the OU College of Nursing. Witnessing the next generation of nurses embrace advanced practice roles reflects our shared belief that the CNS plays a pivotal role in elevating patient care and advancing the future of nursing.

Healthcare is evolving, and success requires a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach. CNSs are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between evidence-based research, clinical practice, and system leadership. They serve not only as expert clinicians but also as mentors, educators, and change agents who elevate the quality of care and empower nursing teams.

To achieve sustainable outcomes and meet the increasing complexities of patient care, healthcare organizations must invest in CNS roles. Supporting CNSs is not just an investment in advanced nursing practice, it is a strategic move toward safer, more efficient, and patient-centered care.

I urge physicians and healthcare administrators, including nursing leaders, to recognize the impact that CNSs have across systems. In oncology and beyond, CNSs improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and foster professional growth within nursing teams. By embracing the CNS role, organizations can lead the way in delivering world-class care and developing future nursing leaders.”

Help us congratulate Deborah and the six CNS students she continues to mentor as they complete their graduate program, no doubt contributing to the legacy of the CNS impact at OU Health’s SCC. n

Learn more about the CNS role at NACNS.org/about-us/what-is-a-CNS/

References

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Consensus Work Group. (2008). Consensus model for APRN licensure, accreditation, certification and education. https://nacns.org/advocacy-policy/ advocacy-resources/state-public-policy-resources

National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. (2024). What is a CNS? NACNS: National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. https://nacns.org/about-us/what-is-a-cns/