Why you should read this article:

•

To learn how working as a nurse consultant in infection prevention and control enabled one nurse to fulfil her ambition to make a positive difference to nursing practice

•

To understand how the skills of a nurse consultant can be used to provide a clear vision and direction, develop evidence-based practice and pace change management, and motivate and inspire others in an organisation

•

To increase awareness of the value of the role of the nurse consultant, particularly since the sustainability of the post is under threat in the UK

The role of nurse consultant was established in 1999 as part of the national ‘Making a Difference’ nursing strategy. This article explores the qualities and skills required to successfully undertake the role, and uses important aspects of the author’s experience of being a clinical nurse consultant in infection prevention and control to illustrate that one of the most strategic clinical leadership roles in healthcare is uniquely innovative and made a difference in the author’s organisation.