Perscriptive Authortities...CRNA

[nurscestudent]

I know that nurse practioners have the ability to write perscription in many states, but in a controlled manner. Does CRNA have that authority too? or is it just "perscribing" anesthesia?

[ICRN2008, BSN, RN]

The correct term is "prescriptive authority". If you do a search, you will find many articles pertaining to this subject. Here is the link to the AANA's legal brief:

http://www.aana.com/Resources.aspx?ucNavMenu_TSMenuTargetID=54&ucNavMenu_TSMenuTargetType=4&ucNavMenu_TSMenuID=6&id=2504

You may also want to check out the Board of Nursing's regulations for your state. Here is an example from Arizona:

https://www.azbn.org/documents/applications/CRNA%20Certification%20Packet.pdf

[CRNAGAL]

My state allows CRNA's to get their prescriptive authority. I obtained mine after I graduated because my masters degree credits could be applied towards the license, rather than having to earn a certain number of pharm CEU's. I also had to take a test. I have an Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber license, as do many of my coworkers. I could also apply for a DEA number, but was advised it may be more work protecting it, than is worth having it. I don't need the authority in the hospital, and have never written a prescription. Its just something nice to have.

[FlGasman]

My state allows CRNA's to get their prescriptive authority. I obtained mine after I graduated because my masters degree credits could be applied towards the license, rather than having to earn a certain number of pharm CEU's. I also had to take a test. I have an Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber license, as do many of my coworkers. I could also apply for a DEA number, but was advised it may be more work protecting it, than is worth having it. I don't need the authority in the hospital, and have never written a prescription. Its just something nice to have.

which states have this option?

[CRNAGAL]

I can only speak for my state, which is Wisconsin.