[Nurses and medication, an expanding role]

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Pharmacology
• Healthcare Policy

Context:

• The historical role of nurses in medicine administration.
• The evolution of nursing scope of practice since 2001.
• The increasing autonomy and responsibilities of nurses in healthcare.

Purpose:

• To analyze the expanding role of nurses in medicine administration.
• To highlight new activities undertaken by nurses related to medications.
• To examine the impact of these changes on interprofessional collaboration.

Summary:

• Nursing's involvement with medicines has broadened beyond administration to include prescribing, repeat treatments, and patient education.
• These expanded roles, particularly since 2001, signify a shift towards greater nurse autonomy.
• The evolving responsibilities necessitate redefined relationships between nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and the pharmaceutical industry.

Impact:

• Enhanced patient care through expanded nursing services.
• Potential for improved medication management and adherence.
• Shifting dynamics in healthcare teams and interprofessional communication.