The clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is a generally untapped resource for the nurse executive. Although seen as an asset, the CNS may be considered an expensive and nonessential part of the department of nursing. The role is threatened with extinction not only because it is seen as dispensable in a time of cost restraint, but also because of problems in role implementation. We believe the CNS role is vital to the advancement of nursing practice and that the impact of the CNS on nursing practice has not reached its full potential. This paper summarizes the major problems inhibiting role development in the hospital setting and suggests solutions to the nurse executive for maximizing the role potential of the CNS.