Is it illegal for nurses to call in scripts?

rndavu729, ADN · Jul 9, 2008

I've worked for an OB/GYN for 14yrs. About 2 yrs ago we hired a PA and alot of things started to change. She claims that if we refill meds that a pt has taken before for an ongoing problem that it is illegal. I've done this for yrs examples; if a pt needs yeast meds or refill for bv, or her hormone for her bleeding. Is this true? I live in the state of Oklahoma.

Are you saying you are calling in meds that have not been specifically ordered (re-filled) by the provider? If so, I would say yes, that is illegal. You are prescribing meds which is not in the scope of practice for a nurse, unless of course you are an NP. :twocents:

crissrn27, RN · Jul 9, 2008

If I understand what you are saying, then it isn't illegal, actually, it is very common for non-nurses (like office staff) to do this. IF it is just a refill of a regular med, where the dr. has seen and prescibed for the pt.

Jolie, BSN · Jul 9, 2008

I think the answer to your question depends upon whether the NP or MD has authorized the refill, or whether you are calling in a refill without consulting the NP/MD.

HeartsOpenWide, RN · Jul 9, 2008

I know in my state as an CMA (so a nurse for sure would be able to do this) I can call in any refills; but if it is a new med or a med change (like change in dose or frequency) then the MD/FNP/PA/CNM has to call it in or write it out so it can be faxed; but most refills come in over the fax machines anyways...

RNsRWe, ASN, RN · Jul 10, 2008

Of course the key is whether there's a valid refill prescription or new prescription ordered, or if you are doing a "courtesy" refill--which is illegal.

I suppose it depends on the State, but in NY, as an RN, I believe I can call in any prescription providing I have the provider's license number (MD or NP). Not so sure about LPNs or UAPs; they can fax orders to pharmacy for certain, but over the phone...good question.

scribblerpnp · Jul 10, 2008

In the state of WV, even if it is a refill, if the MD, DNP, NP, PA, etc isn't aware of the new refill being called in, you would be considered to be practicing prescriptive authority. ANY time you are calling in a med, it must be authorized by a person with prescriptive authority in that state. IF the rx has been authorized by a person with prescriptive authority, basically any trained individual can call it in. But to call in a refill, EVEN if the person has been on it for years without the knowledge or consent of a person with prescriptive authority: NO NO NO NO NO.

Now, SOME offices may slide on this a little, but I can promise you that if you called in a refill, and the doc wasn't aware and found out about it and would have decided NOT to refill the drug, it is going to be your a** on the line.

Get at least a verbal order and chart it as such. CYA.

I hope that first paragraph made sense! I'm tired!