Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

CNL

The Clinical Nurse Leader or CNL® is a master’s educated nurse, prepared for practice across the continuum of care within any healthcare setting. The CNL was developed by AACN in collaboration with leaders from healthcare practice and education to address the critical need to improve the quality of patient care outcomes.

The CNL is a clinical leader – at the point of care – who focuses on:

  • Care Coordination
  • Outcomes Measurement
  • Transitions of Care
  • Interprofessional Communication & Team Leadership
  • Risk Assessment
  • Implementation of Best Practices Based on Evidence
  • Quality Improvement

Access the CNC web portal

MyCNC Portal

Find a Program

Find a Program

Career Services

Career Services

CNL Resources

CNL Resources

CNL Summit

CNL Summit

Get CNL Certified

Get CNL Certified

Learn More

Learn More

News & Announcements


CNLs Recognized at 2025 CNL Conference
February 20, 2025

AACN, Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC), and Northeastern University co-supported the 2025 International CNLA CNL Conference: The CNL Advantage: Sustaining Change. This year, we are excited to announce the latest recipients of the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Vanguard Award and CNL Educator Award.

 

Congratulations to the 2025 CNL Award Recipients

Linda CookCNL Educator Award

Linda Cook, DNP, MPH, APRN, NNP-BC, CNL
Chair Graduate Programs and MSN Program Director
Sacred Heart University.

Learn more about the CNL Educator Award Winners


Jessica SewnathCNL Vanguard Award

Jessica Sewnath, MSN, RN-CNL
Clinical Nurse Leader, Specialty Care Services/Co-Chair
San Francisco VA Health Care System

Learn more about the CNL Vanguard Award Winners 

Value of the CNL

CNL Certification Exam Review Modules 
Cover of CNL Certification Exam Review Modules Brochure

The modules were created for those seeking to prepare for the CNL Certification Examination, practicing CNLs renewing certification through continuing education units (CEUs), and others seeking nursing continuing professional development opportunities. 

The CNL Certification Exam Review Course features 17 chapters across 6 separate modules. By completing all 6 modules, you are eligible to receive 18 continuing education credits.

Learn More