Reflections on Ambulatory Care Nursing and the Impact of the Clinical Nurse Specialist

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to identify and discuss reflections of ambulatory care nursing and the integral role of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) in defining nursing practice in the ambulatory care setting. DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: Three CNSs and a CNS student, all assigned to the ambulatory care setting, discussed their experiences supporting nursing practice in the ambulatory care setting. Major reflections were identified, organized, and then expounded from personal experiences and published studies to highlight the impacts of the CNS in ambulatory care nursing. OUTCOMES: Four major reflections were identified: ambulatory nursing is complex, ambulatory care nursing is in its infancy, ambulatory care nursing adds value, and opportunities exist for measuring the impact of ambulatory care nursing. Progress is being made in determining the role of the nurse in the ambulatory care setting, but more work is required. The CNS is prepared to define nursing practice in the ambulatory care setting and develop nursing-specific resources that support nurses in practicing to the full extent of their licensure. CONCLUSION: The ambulatory care setting is expected to support the majority of the healthcare needs of the future. Ambulatory care nurses are well suited to meaningfully contribute to patient care. Evidence-based nursing practice in this setting is vital to ensure safe, quality patient care.