Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2024]

adult gerontology clinical nurse specialist job description

In an aging society, the need for Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialists (AGCNS) has never been more critical.

Healthcare continues to evolve, and with each advancement, the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, enhance, and safeguard our geriatric care framework grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker trying to decode the essence of this role,
  • A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
  • Or simply fascinated by the intricate workings of geriatric nursing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we’re introducing a customizable Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialists are advanced practice registered nurses who hold expertise in adult and elderly care.

They are clinical experts in diagnosing and treating illness in adults and the elderly and work to improve patient outcomes and health care delivery.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

  • Assessing, diagnosing, and treating health conditions specific to adults and the elderly
  • Providing expert care, maintaining health, and managing patients’ chronic diseases and illnesses
  • Educating and counseling patients and their families on health behaviors, self-care skills, and treatment options
  • Performing comprehensive geriatric assessments to identify health status and needs
  • Consulting with other healthcare professionals to manage complex and high-risk patients
  • Designing and implementing disease prevention and health promotion programs for adults and the elderly
  • Leading and collaborating in multidisciplinary teams to enhance the quality of care
  • Conducting research in order to improve patient outcomes and healthcare processes
  • Advocating for older adults in various settings to ensure their healthcare needs are met
  • Using health information technology to deliver, manage, and improve patient care

 

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) to join our team.

The CNS will provide advanced nursing care, education, and consultation services to adult and elderly patients in our healthcare system.

The Adult-Gerontology CNS will use their specialized knowledge and skills to promote evidence-based practice and improve patient outcomes.

The right candidate should have a strong background in geriatric care, excellent clinical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams.

 

Responsibilities

  • Provide advanced clinical care to adults and the elderly, including assessment, diagnosis, and management of health problems.
  • Develop and implement treatment plans, monitor progress and adjust care as necessary.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to provide coordinated patient care.
  • Provide education and support to patients and their families regarding diagnosis, treatment options and health maintenance.
  • Conduct research to improve patient care and outcomes in the geriatric population.
  • Evaluate and implement evidence-based practice standards.
  • Contribute to staff education to improve the competence and confidence of nursing personnel.
  • Advocate for the health and well-being of older adults.

 

Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in nursing.
  • Current Registered Nurse (RN) license.
  • Certification as an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist.
  • Experience in geriatric nursing.
  • Strong clinical, diagnostic and patient management skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Knowledge of relevant healthcare laws and regulations.

 

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Work Environment: Hospital or clinical setting. On-call hours may be required.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Nursing.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Do?

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialists, often referred to as AG CNSs, work primarily in healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient care centers.

They can also provide in-home care to elderly patients.

These specialized nurses provide direct patient care to adults and elderly individuals, offering treatment and counseling.

They administer medications, perform diagnostic tests, and monitor vital signs.

AG CNSs are also responsible for creating and implementing patient care plans, often working in collaboration with other healthcare professionals such as doctors, nutritionists, and therapists.

They monitor the patient’s progress and make adjustments to the care plan as necessary.

They specialize in the health issues, conditions, and diseases that predominantly affect the adult and elderly population, such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, dementia, and more.

AG CNSs also play a crucial role in patient education.

They provide patients and their families with information about their conditions, treatment options, and lifestyle adjustments they may need to manage their health.

In addition, they may conduct research and use their findings to improve patient care strategies, and often have a role in management and administration within their healthcare setting.

These professionals are required to have advanced nursing education and certification, demonstrating expertise in this complex and sensitive area of healthcare.

 

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist should possess a range of technical and interpersonal skills to provide high quality care to patients, such as:

  • Strong clinical knowledge and experience in managing the health needs of adult and geriatric patients, including the ability to diagnose and treat acute, chronic, and critical conditions.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals, explaining complex medical conditions and treatment plans in a way that is easy for non-medical personnel to understand.
  • A deep understanding and ability to apply evidence-based nursing practices and principles, and to stay updated with the latest advancements in adult-gerontology nursing.
  • Proficiency in clinical assessment to accurately evaluate a patient’s condition and the effectiveness of treatment plans, modifying as necessary for optimum patient outcomes.
  • Strong leadership skills and the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, guiding and mentoring other nursing staff and contributing to the overall improvement of nursing care.
  • Compassion and empathy to provide emotional support to patients and their families, assisting them in coping with illnesses and treatment processes.
  • Physical stamina and stress management skills to cope with long hours, high-pressure situations, and the emotional demands of patient care.
  • Strong decision-making skills and the ability to quickly respond in emergency situations.

 

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialists typically have at least two years of professional nursing experience, often in a geriatric or adult-care setting.

This is in addition to the completion of an accredited master’s or doctoral degree program in nursing.

In their training, these professionals usually gain hands-on clinical experience through internships or residency programs, dealing with the unique health needs of aging adults.

Their clinical experiences cover areas such as acute care, preventive care, long-term care, and palliative care.

Candidates with more than five years of experience often have extensive clinical practice in adult-gerontology nursing.

They may have developed additional skills in managing complex clinical problems, promoting evidence-based practices, and educating patients, families, and staff.

Those with more than 10 years of experience usually have a significant amount of leadership experience.

They are skilled in designing and implementing innovative healthcare strategies for adult and elderly patient populations.

At this level, they may be ready for higher-level roles such as department head, clinical director, or advanced practice leadership positions.

All adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialists are required to pass a certification examination offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).

Continuous learning and regular recertification are necessary to stay current with advancements in the field.

 

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Individuals pursuing a career as an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AG CNS) usually begin by acquiring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

Upon completion of a BSN, they should obtain a Registered Nurse (RN) license by passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Next, they should gain experience in a clinical setting, ideally in adult-gerontology, to enhance their nursing skills and knowledge in the field.

To become an AG CNS, candidates are required to complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a focus on adult-gerontology.

These graduate programs provide intensive training in the diagnosis and management of illnesses and conditions common to adults and the elderly.

After completing the required graduate education, candidates need to pass the Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Certification (AGCNS-BC) exam, which is offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

To maintain their certification, AG CNSs must complete a certain number of continuing education hours every few years, as specified by the ANCC.

It is also beneficial for AG CNSs to have strong communication skills, a broad understanding of the aging process, and a passion for enhancing the quality of life for older adults.

 

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Salary Expectations

An Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist earns an average salary of $105,621 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, qualifications, geographic location, and the healthcare institution.

 

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist need?

Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialists must possess strong clinical skills and knowledge in adult and geriatric care.

They should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.

Problem-solving, critical-thinking, and decision-making skills are crucial in this role, as well as empathetic and compassionate patient care.

 

What are the educational requirements for an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist?

An Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist typically needs to have a Master’s degree in nursing with a specialization in Adult-Gerontology.

Some roles may require a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

Additionally, they must have a registered nursing license and may require certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist.

 

What should you look for in an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist resume?

The first thing to look for is their educational background and certifications.

They should have a Master’s degree in nursing with a specialization in Adult-Gerontology and a valid nursing license.

Relevant work experience in adult and geriatric care is equally important.

Look for skills such as patient assessment, care plan development, patient education, and team collaboration.

 

What qualities make a good Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist?

A good Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist is patient, empathetic, and has strong interpersonal skills to establish trust and rapport with patients and their families.

They should have excellent clinical skills, stay updated on the latest geriatric care practices, and be able to work collaboratively with a healthcare team.

This role requires problem-solving skills, critical thinking and the ability to make important decisions under pressure.

 

Is it challenging to hire an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist?

Yes, hiring an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist can be challenging due to the specific educational and experience requirements.

The candidate must have specialized training in adult and geriatric care, which narrows the field of potential applicants.

Competitive salary and benefits package, ongoing education opportunities, and supportive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed some light on what it truly entails to be an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about patient care.

It’s about shaping the future of geriatric health, one patient at a time.

With our reliable Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist job description template and genuine examples, you’re all set to make your next career move.

But why stop here?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for crafting precision-tuned job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Keep this in mind:

Every patient interaction is a step towards a healthier future.

Let’s pave the way for that future. Together.

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