Extended prescribing: the legal implications

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Law
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The scope of nursing practice has evolved significantly, with nurses gaining prescribing authority.
• This expansion of responsibility necessitates an understanding of potential legal ramifications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To trace the historical development of nurse prescribing in response to government reports.
• To evaluate the potential for increased litigation risk associated with enhanced nurse prescribing.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of government reports and policy documents on nurse prescribing.
• Analysis of legal frameworks and potential liabilities for nurses with prescribing powers.

Main Results:

• Nurse prescribing has developed through distinct phases, influenced by policy changes.
• The legal implications of extended nurse prescribing responsibilities require further investigation.

Conclusions:

• While nurse prescribing offers benefits, the potential for litigation is a key consideration.
• Further research and clear legal guidelines are needed to address the risks of enhanced nurse prescribing.