It is clear that the Consensus Model for APRN Regulation is driving this issue.  I graduated from the MS program in the CNS track at VCU with a focus in Med-Surg Nursing in 1988.  The population was adults so I was educationally prepared to sit for the Med-Surg (now called the Adult Health) exam and continue to hold that credential.  During my educational program, I was expected to develop advanced knowledge and skill in a subspecialty; my sub-specialty was in endocrine nursing.  As there was no sub-specialty exam for the Advanced Practice Nurse at that time, I later sought the Certified Diabetes Educator credential which validates the educative component of diabetes nursing.  It was only recently that an Advanced Practice Nursing credential in my sub-specialty became available, eg Advanced Diabetes Manager BC-ADM.  I then sought that credential.

NACNS fought to make sure Clinical Nurse Specialists were included in the conversation regarding who was an Advanced Practice Nurse, as initially we were not included.  Subsequently, NCSBN created a more inclusive model. The Clinical Nurse Specialist role remains unique.  Standardizing educational curriculums across the country so we can move throughout the US and still practice to the fullest extent of our education and skill is vital.  Standardizing licensure & certification is vital.  Preserving the CNS role is imperative.  What we don't want to do is exclude ourselves from the ongoing conversation of what Advance Nursing Practice is.    

I have been in communication with Ms Hurley and have lead her back to her MS program contacts (who assured me she could pursue the Adult Health exam).  I have also put her in touch with a NACNS/AWHONN member who is actively involved in the work group developing the Core Competencies which will provide the foundation for a Women's Health exam.