Roles & Responsibilities of the Advanced Nurse Practitioner When Prescribing Medication

Full Answer Section

      Determining Drug Therapy: APRNs follow a systematic approach to determine the best medication for a patient:

• Gather Information: They review the patient's medical history, allergies, current medications, and lifestyle factors.
• Consider Diagnosis: They consider the specific diagnosis and established treatment guidelines.
• Evaluate Medication Options: They research potential medications, weighing factors like efficacy, side effects, drug interactions, and cost.
• Individualize Treatment: They consider the patient's unique needs and preferences when making the final decision.

3. Patient Education and Teaching:

APRNs have a critical role in patient education to ensure safe and effective medication use. Responsibilities include:

• Explaining the Medication: They explain how the medication works, its intended effects, and potential side effects.
• Dosage Instructions: They provide clear instructions on dosage, frequency, and proper administration of the medication.
• Storage and Disposal: They educate patients on proper storage and disposal of medications.
• Addressing Concerns: They address any questions or concerns the patient may have about the medication.

4. Schedule Drugs and Prescribing Restrictions:

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies controlled substances (drugs with potential for abuse) into five schedules based on their potential for addiction and accepted medical use. Here's a brief overview:

• Schedule II: High potential for abuse, severe dependence possible (e.g., oxycodone, morphine). May require additional documentation and have stricter refill limits.
• Schedule III: Moderate to high potential for abuse, less severe dependence possible (e.g., codeine, buprenorphine). May have some limitations on refills.
• Schedule IV: Low potential for abuse compared to Schedule III (e.g., Xanax, Ativan). May have refill limitations depending on the drug.
• Schedule V: Low potential for abuse, limited accepted medical use (e.g., cough syrups with small amounts of codeine).

APRN prescribing of Schedule drugs may have additional restrictions depending on the state. Some states require collaboration with a physician for certain Schedule drugs, especially Schedule II. It's crucial for APRNs to stay updated on their state's specific regulations regarding prescribing controlled substances. Remember: This is a general overview. Always refer to your state's specific regulations and your supervising physician (if applicable) for the most up-to-date information on APRN prescribing practices.  

Sample Answer

   

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, and one of their key functions is prescribing medication. However, their responsibilities and the regulations surrounding prescribing vary by state. Here's a breakdown of the key points:

1. APRN Roles and Responsibilities:

• Assessment and Diagnosis: APRNs conduct comprehensive patient assessments to diagnose conditions and determine if medication is necessary.
• Developing a Treatment Plan: They collaborate with physicians (in some states) and other healthcare providers to develop a treatment plan that may include medication.
• Prescribing Medication: In many states, APRNs can independently prescribe medications from all schedules (with some exceptions). They consider factors like patient history, allergies, potential drug interactions, and medication effectiveness.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: APRNs monitor patients' responses to medication, adjust dosages as needed, and identify any adverse effects.