The impact of nurse prescribing on the clinical setting

To investigate the impact nurse prescribing has on the organisation, patient and health professional, and to identify factors associated with the growth of nurse prescribing.

Systematic search and narrative review. Data obtained through CINAHL, PubMed, Science direct, Online Computer Library Centre (OCLC), databases/websites, and hand searching. English peer-reviewed quantitative, qualitative and mixed-method articles published from September 2009 through to August 2014 exploring nurse prescribing from the perspective of the organisation, health professional and patient were included. Following a systematic selection process, studies identified were also assessed for quality by applying Cardwell's framework.

From the initial 443 citations 37 studies were included in the review. Most studies were descriptive in nature. Commonalities addressed were stakeholders' views, prescribing in practice, jurisdiction, education and benefits/barriers.

Prescriptive authority for nurses continues to be a positive addition to clinical practice. However, concerns have emerged regarding appropriate support, relationships and jurisdictional issues. A more comprehensive understanding of nurse and midwife prescribing workloads is required to capture the true impact and cost-effectiveness of the initiative.