Roles and responsibilities of the APRN when prescribing medication

Full Answer Section

• Diagnosis & Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment, APRNs can diagnose certain medical conditions and develop treatment plans, which may include medication prescription.
• Medication Selection: APRNs consider several factors when choosing a medication, including:
  • Patient's diagnosis and medical history
  • Severity of illness
  • Potential allergies or drug interactions
  • Patient's age and overall health
  • Cost and availability of the medication
• Monitoring & Follow-up: APNs monitor patients for medication effectiveness and side effects, adjusting the dosage or medication if necessary. They also schedule follow-up appointments to assess progress and address any new concerns.

Patient Education and Teaching:

• Understanding the Medication: APRNs explain the prescribed medication's purpose, dosage, expected side effects, potential drug interactions, and proper administration techniques.
• Promoting Adherence: They address patient concerns and educate them on the importance of taking medication as directed, even if they don't feel immediate effects.
• Lifestyle Modifications: APNs may advise on lifestyle changes that can support the medication's effectiveness, such as dietary adjustments or exercise routines.

Scheduled Drugs and Prescribing Restrictions:

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies certain medications based on their potential for abuse and dependence. These are known as "scheduled drugs." Each schedule has specific prescribing restrictions:

• Schedule II: High potential for abuse, with severe psychological or physical dependence. Examples include oxycodone, morphine, and amphetamines. Prescriptions are tightly controlled with limitations on refills.
• Schedule III: Moderate to high potential for abuse, with less severe dependence potential. Examples include codeine with acetaminophen and some sedatives. Prescriptions require written documentation and have refill limitations.
• Schedule IV: Low potential for abuse and dependence. Examples include Xanax and some sleeping medications. Prescriptions have specific documentation requirements but allow for refills.
• Schedule V: Low potential for abuse. Examples include some cough suppressants and antidiarrheal medications. Prescriptions may have fewer restrictions.

Importance of Collaboration:

While APRNs have prescribing authority, it's crucial for them to collaborate with physicians in certain situations, especially when dealing with complex cases or medications with high abuse potential.

By understanding their roles, considering all factors in medication selection, prioritizing patient education, and adhering to prescribing regulations, APRNs can ensure safe and effective medication use for their patients.

Sample Answer

APRN and Medication Prescribing: Responsibilities and Considerations

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, and one of their key responsibilities is medication prescribing. Here's a breakdown of their roles, the factors involved in drug selection, patient education, and regulations around scheduled drugs.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• History Taking & Assessment: APRNs gather a comprehensive medical history, conduct physical examinations, and review diagnostic tests to understand the patient's condition and potential medication interactions.