Prescriptive authority agreements (PAAs) allow advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to prescribe medication and make certain medical decisions autonomously. These agreements are crucial for APRNs to provide quality healthcare services while also maintaining patient safety.

Here is an example of a prescriptive authority agreement:

1. Scope of Agreement

This agreement establishes the legal framework for APRN’s prescriptive authority, with regard to Schedule II, III, IV and V controlled substances. The APRN will be authorized to prescribe controlled substances within their scope of practice, and based on their education and clinical experience. The APRN must ensure that the prescription is within the standard of care, and that the patient`s welfare is given priority.

2. Qualifications of the APRN

The APRN must have a current license to practice, as well as proof of completion of a graduate-level educational program in their specialty area, which includes pharmacology and drug therapy management. Additionally, the APRN must hold an unrestricted DEA registration, and a thorough knowledge of the federal and state laws and regulations that govern prescribing of controlled substances.

3. Collaboration with Physician

The APRN must collaborate with at least one physician who is currently licensed and has prescriptive authority. The collaborating physician must be named in writing and approved by the APRN’s certifying governing body, and their responsibilities must be clearly defined in the agreement.

4. Documentation

The APRN must maintain accurate, complete and current records of all prescriptions they issue, and must comply with all reporting requirements mandated by state and federal laws and regulations.

5. Liability and Insurance Coverage

The APRN must maintain coverage for professional liability insurance as a condition of participating in this prescriptive authority agreement. The APRN must also agree to indemnify and hold the collaborating physician harmless from any liability arising from the APRN’s use of their prescriptive authority.

In conclusion, prescriptive authority agreements are essential for APRNs to provide quality care while also ensuring patient safety. The agreement should clearly define the scope of the APRN’s practice, their qualifications, collaboration with physicians, documentation requirements, and liability and insurance coverage. By following these guidelines, APRNs can provide comprehensive care that meets the needs of their patients while also complying with state and federal regulations.