Factors That Influence CNSs' Decision About Specialization

Few studies have explored nurses' decision making relative to advanced practice. The purposes of this study were to determine when the decision to prepare as a CNS in a particular specialty is made and to identify the factors that influence that decision. A survey was completed by 257 CNSs. Results indicated that more than half (69%) decided on their specialty after graduation from a basic nursing program. The factors that influenced choice of specialty included experience in first position (47%), clinical role model (37%), and student experience (35%). Critical care was rated the most desirable specialty and psychiatric nursing the least preferred.