The first interview question specifically asked each CNL how they would
describe the role of the CNL. Participants returned a common answer of an advanced
generalist. The participants’ related their experiences that described what the advanced
generalist does, as well as specifically stating they are an advanced generalist. The
literature defines a very similar definition of the role. Baernholdt and Cottingham (2011)
describe the advanced generalist as a Masters prepared nurse with a foundation in liberal
arts and sciences, professional values, and core knowledge of nursing, who maintains the
ability to apply knowledge at the microsystem level, and to make complex decisions from
their knowledge base. Based on the similarities between the advanced generalist role
described by participants and the role from literature, perceptions of CNLs in practice
clearly aligns with the purpose and role of the CNL described in the literature. The
creation of the CNL was intended to: (1) provide evidence-based practice, (2) provide
collaborative care through lateral integration, (3) collect and evaluate care outcomes, (4)
monitor changes in plans of care and risk involved in changes (AACN, 2007). The CNLs
directly described their lived experiences using evidence-based practice, lateral
integration of care, outcomes, and the ability to make changes.