The role of the clinical specialist in an adult congenital heart disease program.

As the specialty of adult congenital heart disease (CHD) develops, there is concern regarding the training of the health professional who will be responsible for patient management. Integral to the program is the role of the clinical nurse specialist. An advanced practice role, the clinical nurse specialist provides her or his expertise to both the daily operation of the program and to the clinical management and education of patients and their families. The educational preparation and roles of a clinical specialist in adult CHD are described.