ARNP Controlled Substance Prescribing
ARNP Controlled Substance Prescribing
(ARNP Controlled Substance Prescribing)
Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNPs) in certain states are authorized to prescribe controlled substances, although the specifics vary by state regulations. Typically, ARNPs must complete additional education and training, possess national certification in their specialty area, and collaborate with a supervising physician or work within a collaborative practice agreement. Controlled substance prescribing by ARNPs is often limited to specific schedules, such as Schedule II through V drugs, with Schedule II medications having stricter regulations.
ARNPs prescribing controlled substances must adhere to strict guidelines, including conducting thorough patient assessments, obtaining informed consent, and implementing appropriate monitoring and documentation practices. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals and communication with patients regarding the risks and benefits of controlled substances are also crucial aspects of responsible prescribing.
State laws dictate the scope of practice for ARNPs regarding controlled substances, outlining limitations on prescription durations, refills, and the types of medications that can be prescribed. Additionally, ARNPs must stay updated on changes in regulations and best practices to ensure safe and effective prescribing practices while contributing to the overall management of patients’ health and well-being.
CS/SB 614 authorizes an ARNP to prescribe, dispense, administer, or order any drug, which would include controlled substances.
ARNP disciplinary sanctions are added to the bill in s. 456.072, F.S., (Section 5) to mirror a physician’s sanctions for prescribing or dispensing a controlled substance other in the course of professional practice or failing to meet practice standards. Additional acts for which discipline may be taken against an ARNP relating to practicing with controlled substances that are added to the Nurse Practice Act (Section 10) include:
Presigning blank prescription forms.
Prescribing a Schedule II for office use.
Prescribing, dispensing, or administering an amphetamine or sympathomimetic amine drug, except for specified conditions.
Prescribing, dispensing, or administering certain hormones for muscle-building or athletic performance.
Promoting or advertising a pharmacy on a prescription form unless the form also states that the prescription may be filled at the pharmacy of your choice.
Prescribing, dispensing, or administering drugs, including controlled substances, other than in the course of his or her professional practice.
Prescribing, dispensing, or administering a controlled substance to himself or herself.
Prescribing, dispensing, or administering laetrile.
Dispensing a controlled substance listed in Schedule II or Schedule III in violation of the requirements for dispensing practitioners in the Pharmacy Practice Act.
Promoting or advertising controlled substances.
After reading the following news article http://c-hit.org/2015/04/06/high-prescribing-nurse-surrenders-drug-licenses/
Identify what issues may arise with prescriptive authority of controlled substances and how you may avoid these situations?
