Diffusion of a Nurse-led Healthcare Innovation: Describing Certified Clinical Nurse Leader Integration Into Care Delivery.

BACKGROUND: The Clinical Nurse Leader™ (CNL) initiative is in its 2nd decade. Despite a growing theoretical and empirical body of CNL knowledge, little is known about CNLs themselves or where and how their competencies are being integrated into care delivery across the country.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe certified CNL characteristics and roles as part of a larger study validating a model for CNL practice.

METHODS: This study used a descriptive analysis of survey data from a national sample of certified CNLs.

RESULTS: Survey response rate was 19%. Sixty percent have greater than 10 years of RN experience, and 75% have additional specialty certifications. Fifty-eight percent are practicing in a formal CNL role and report a high degree of accountability for all 9 CNL essential competencies.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings help understand the extent of CNL adoption and spread across the country and the level to which the initial vision of CNL practice is being achieved.