Implementing Geriatric Models of Care: A Role of the Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist-Part I

Implementing the Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist (GCNS) Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) role system-wide is an approach designed to engage staff nurses in application of gerontological nursing best practices and improvement of patient outcomes. Despite the increasing pressure to decrease costs and improve outcomes, nurses continue to focus on their number 1 priority of providing best practices for safe patient/family care. Implementing geriatric models of care and promoting gerontological nursing certification through facilitating the role of the GCNS improves patient outcomes. To support nursing practice at the point of care, whether at the bedside, in a patient's home, or in a community setting, an essential cost-effective method is incorporating a GCNS role within the organization. The purpose of this article is to describe various examples of GCNS practice that influence nursing care and outcomes, highlight successful geriatric models of care, and provide opportunities for nurses to learn about and implement gerontological nursing best practices. Stories are shared to enhance an understanding of the GCNS role in the 3 spheres of influence as defined by the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) that include direct patient care, nurses and nursing practice, and organizational and health systems. This is a 2-part article. (Geriatr Nurs 2012;33:229-234)