Which organization certifies clinical nurse specialists?

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is responsible for certifying clinical nurse specialists. This organization provides a robust certification process that recognizes the expertise and advanced practice of nurses in specialized roles. The ANCC focuses on establishing high standards for nursing practice and offers credentials that validate the competence and proficiency of nursing professionals, including clinical nurse specialists. Certification through the ANCC typically necessitates meeting specific educational and clinical practice requirements, as well as successfully passing a certification exam.

In contrast, other organizations listed may have roles in the healthcare field but do not offer the specific certification for clinical nurse specialists. For example, the American Medical Association focuses on physicians and may not be involved in nursing certifications, while the Board of Nursing is primarily regulatory in nature, establishing licensing standards rather than offering specialty certifications. The National Association of Nurses does not hold a recognized role in certifying clinical nurse specialists. Hence, the ANCC is the correct answer, as it is the authoritative body that provides certification specifically for this nursing specialty.