Perioperative Clinical Nurse Specialist Role Delineation: A Systematic Review

A clearly defined role of the Perioperative Clinical Nurse Specialist (PONS) is not identified. The purpose of this study was to provide recommendations for a delineated role of the PONS that will provide role clarity and practice guidance. A systematic review of the literature was conducted utilizing an adaptation of Rheiner's Role Theory Framework for Change. The initial search yielded 6374 articles. Thirteen percent (859) of the articles met inclusion criteria. In order to ensure consistency and confirmability, two members read each article and entered a synopsis into a review summary table. Synopses were analyzed using both deductive and inductive techniques. There was no uniform role for the CNS identified through the literature, Competencies and educational preparation of the CNS are well defined by professional organizations however many nurses use the title without the credentials. Versatility of CNS practice, the lack of core or specialty certification, and the variance of state recognition all contribute to role confusion. Future research should evaluate the merging of the CNS and NP titles; the presence of PCNSs, their functions, spheres of influence, and patient outcomes.