Not everyone can see a doctor for their health problem, so speaking to a nurse is a great alternative.
But what if you need prescription medication? Can you get prescription drugs from a registered nurse?
This typically depends on what state you live in. Some states allow registered nurses to prescribe tablets, capsules, pills, injections and other medications.
In this article, we take a closer look at what qualifications a nurse needs to prescribe medication to a patient.
What Is A Registered Nurse?
A registered nurse (RN) is a nurse who has passed all the necessary examination and educational requirements.
Registered nurses are licensed to practice nursing in their state.
Registered nurses have the full knowledge and training to cover the full scope of nursing practice.
In order to become a registered nurse, you will need to earn either a Bachelor’s degree in nursing or an associate degree.
Once you have completed the degree, you will need to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam which is organized by the National Council of States Board of Nursing.
When you pass this exam, then you can apply for your nursing license in the state where you want to practice.
Can Registered Nurses Prescribe Medication?
Yes, registered nurses can prescribe different types of medications in the US. However, this depends on the state and the advanced training of the nurse.
Generally, only certain states allow registered nurses to dispense medications, such as STI care medication and contraceptives.
If you are an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), then you can prescribe almost all type of medication in all US states as part of your licensing.
While many states also have individual laws when it comes to registered nurses, nurse practitioners (NP), APRNs, nurse midwives (CNM), certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNA) and clinical nurse specialists (CNS), there are different rules in place what medication they can prescribe (see also ‘How To Find Out If A Nurse Is Under Investigation‘).
Can Nurse Practitioners (NPs) Prescribe Medication?
Yes, nurse practitioners can prescribe medications because they have the suitable certification, education and training.
A large part of an NP’s education and authority is the ability to dispense and prescribe medication.
This gives nurse practitioners the skills and knowledge to prescribe and administer medications (see also ‘How To Administer A Vaccine‘).
However, some nurse practitioners in some states require an agreement with a collaborating physician to prescribe medication. This is the case in Florida, Texas and California.
States, such as Oregon, Colorado and Wyoming, grant full authorization to nurse practitioners which means that they can prescribe medication without any supervision.
Some states also have introduced a probationary period where nurse practitioners need to have a collaboration agreement with a practicing physician for one to three years until they are allowed to prescribe medication without supervision.
There are also some restrictions on what a nurse practitioner can prescribe but these depend on the individual state.
Can Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) Administer Medication?
Some LPNs in some states are allowed to administer prescription medications.
However, it is important to understand and know the scope of practice for your nursing job title.
Nurses are held accountable for everything they do, so it is essential that all nurses of all levels understand their responsibilities.
Typically, LPNs perform taste, such as wound care, changing bed linens and bathing patients.
While LPNs can administer oral medications, they are not permitted to prescribe medications, like some registered nurses or advanced practice registered nurses.
Why Is It Important That Registered Nurses Can Prescribe Medication?
In the USA, not every patient has access to affordable health care. Especially people with lower incomes and no health insurance struggle to get the help they need from a doctor.
Registered nurses can be the first point of contact for many people who suffer from certain conditions.
It’s important that registered nurses can also dispense prescription drugs to support patients as much as possible.
If a registered nurse can prescribe medication then this means patients and nurses don’t need the approval of a doctor, which reduces the workload on doctors.
Why Are There Limits For Who Can Prescribe Medication?
There is no doubt that prescription medications can help a range of people with serious conditions and illnesses.
While prescription drugs are a big medical achievement that helps millions of people every day, they also have their disadvantages and dangers.
Type Of Prescription Medication
Prescription drugs come in many different forms, from capsules, syrups and pills to tablets, patches, sprays and implants.
When prescription drugs aren’t used in the correct way, then they can cause serious harm.
That’s why, doctors and nurses are only allowed to prescribe drugs when they have the appropriate qualifications and knowledge.
This is also the reason why not all registered nurses can prescribe medication. Some qualifications do not cover dispensing of medication and its effects.
Side Effects
Prescription medication can also have severe side effects which registered nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals should be aware of before dispensing medication.
Different States
Each US state has different laws when it comes to medication, prescription medication and who can prescribe them.
In some states, registered nurses don’t need advanced training to prescribe medications, while in other states, only advanced practice registered nurses can dispense prescriptions.
This does not just depend on the state’s medication law but also how individual healthcare practitioners are allowed to practice.
Some registered nurses in certain states are only allowed to practice as part of a healthcare clinic, while others can also practice as individuals.
This matters because some nurses may then require a sign-off from doctors when they prescribe medication.
Can Registered Nurses Prescribe Antibiotics?
Yes, registered nurses can prescribe antibiotics with the right licensing. This can vary by state and qualification of the nurse.
Final Thoughts
In the United States, registered nurses can prescribe medication but this depends on the state where they live in and their qualifications.
Not all RNs are allowed to dispense all type of prescription drugs in all states. If you are a registered nurse, it’s important to check with your state’s authority.