Effects Of Nurse Prescribing Of Medication: A Systematic Review

Background :Nurse prescribing is being implemented increasingly. This article reviews the literature on the effects of it. Methods :Eleven databases and 6 websites were searched. The quality of the studies was determined. Outcomes were classified by the effects on medication prescribed, on patients, on professionals and on the health care system. Results : Twenty-three studies were included. All but two studies had a high risk of bias. Nurses sometimes differ from physicians in the number of patients they prescribe or in the choice of type of medication. Clinical parameters were the same or better for treatment by nurses; perceived quality of care by nurses is similar or better. The effects on professionals or on the health care system could not be described. Conclusion :The effects of nurse prescribing seem positive, although the high risk of bias in the studies means they must be regarded with caution. This work was funded by the NIVEL