1) Describe the roles and responsibilities of the APRN when prescribing medication.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Prescribing Medication
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) play a critical role in healthcare, bridging the gap between patients and accessible, effective medical treatment. One of their key responsibilities is prescribing medication, a task that requires comprehensive knowledge, careful judgment, and strict adherence to ethical and regulatory standards. When prescribing medications, APRNs must assess patient needs, consider the efficacy and safety of medications, monitor patient outcomes, and adjust treatments as necessary. They also need to be vigilant about potential drug interactions and the specific health history of each patient (Buppert, 2021).
Methodology for Determining Appropriate Drug Therapy
The decision-making process for prescribing involves several critical steps. Initially, APRNs conduct a thorough assessment, which includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and review of any necessary diagnostic tests. This information helps to accurately diagnose and tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs. APRNs use evidence-based guidelines and clinical judgment to select appropriate drug therapy, considering factors such as the drug’s efficacy, safety, cost, and patient preferences. Additionally, they must stay informed about new medications and changes in treatment protocols through continuous professional development and research (Fitzgerald, 2019).
Patient Education and Teaching Responsibilities
Education is a fundamental aspect of the APRN’s role, especially when it comes to prescribed therapies. APRNs are responsible for informing patients about the purposes and benefits of prescribed medications, possible side effects, the importance of adherence to prescribed dosages, and the management of any potential side effects. Effective communication helps ensure that patients are well-informed and can actively participate in their care, which is critical for achieving the best health outcomes. APRNs also need to assess the patient’s understanding and readiness to comply with the treatment plan, providing additional resources or support as necessary (Buppert, 2021).
Schedule Drugs and Prescribing Restrictions
In the United States, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies drugs into schedules based on their accepted medical use and potential for abuse. Schedule I drugs have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, making them illegal to prescribe. Schedule II drugs, including opioids and amphetamines, have a high potential for abuse but are available for medical use with strict prescribing restrictions, such as no refills without a new prescription.
Schedule III and IV drugs, which include less potent narcotics and some tranquilizers, have a lower potential for abuse. These drugs can be refilled up to five times within six months. Lastly, Schedule V drugs, which are generally preparations containing limited quantities of certain narcotics, are considered to have the lowest potential for abuse among the controlled substances and are subject to fewer restrictions (DEA, n.d.).
In conclusion, APRNs have a significant responsibility in prescribing medication, requiring a deep understanding of pharmacology, patient care, and legal regulations. They must effectively educate patients about their medications and adhere strictly to regulatory guidelines, particularly concerning controlled substances.
References
Buppert, C. (2021). Nurse Practitioner’s Business Practice and Legal Guide (7th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Fitzgerald, M. (2019). Pharmacology for Nurse Anesthetists. Wolters Kluwer.
DEA. (n.d.). Drug Scheduling. Retrieved from https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling.