License: Advanced Practice Registered Nurse: Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
University Tower Building, Suite 800
1123 South University
Little Rock, AR 72204
(501) 686-2700
The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) has advanced knowledge and practice skills in a specialized area of clinical nursing practice. The CNS performs advanced assessments, analyses and evaluations of individuals, families and communities. As an advanced clinician in a specialty area, the CNS develops, implements and evaluates comprehensive treatment plans. The CNS also consults with the public and professionals in health care, business and industry in areas of research, case management, education and administration. Specialty certifications recognized by the Board include psychiatric and mental health, gerontological, adult health, acute/critical care, and pediatric. Requirements: 1) Must possess an active license as a Registered Nurse in Arkansas or privilege to practice on a registered Nurse compact state license. 2) Hold a master's degree evidencing successful completion of a graduate program in nursing, which shall include supervised clinical practice and classroom instruction in a nursing clinical practice specialty. 3) Hold a current certification by a national certifying body recognized by the Board. 4) Criminal background check and FBI fingerprint check required. 5) Exam applicants must have practiced a minimum of 2,000 hours as an RN. Written and oral examinations required. License fee: $125.00 initial, Renewal fee: $65.00 biennially, Temporary Permit fee: $30.00
- Secondary license (other license is prerequisite)
- Third-party exam required
- Degree required
- Continuing education required
- Certification required
- Experience required
- Background check required
- No physical requirements
- A temporary license available to military and spouses until formal license approval
License information updated 06/28/2022