Incorporation of the Clinical Nurse Leader in Public Health Practice

A case study was conducted to examine the appropriateness of the clinical nurse leader (CNL) role and its use within the Alabama Department of Public Health. The role of the CNL to provide leadership within the public health environment is examined. Using the aspects of the CNL training toward improvement of patient outcomes and prevention of errors through coordination was the key outcome of the case study. The role of the CNL was used to provide evaluation while promoting progress and improvement of planning efforts with the performance improvement planning microsystem. The article will discuss and evaluate various functions of the CNL role as it is adapted to the public health environment. The CNL role, as described in the case study furthermore, may be implemented in a wide variety of similar situations through the nation's health settings.