Description
Post the link to your state requirement for completion of the pharmacology course.
https://idfpr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idfpr/forms/online/-309-apn-controlled-substance-user-guide.pdf
Evidence of completion of at least 45 graduate contact hours in pharmacology must be submitted to obtain Schedule II prescriptive authority.
Discuss your state requirements and scope of practice for APRN’s in your state.
Illinois is a “yellow” state which means reduced Practice. State practice and licensure laws reduce the ability of NPs to engage in at least one element of NP practice. State law requires a career-long regulated collaborative agreement with another health provider for the NP to provide patient care, or it limits the setting of one or more elements of NP practice (AANP, 2023).
Discuss the process on how to obtain an NPI number.
There are three ways that you can obtain your NPI. Complete the online application at the NPPES web site; https://NPPES.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/Welcome.do. Download the paper application form at www.cms.hhs.gov/NationalProvIdentStand/ and mail it to the address on the form; or, after asking permission, authorize an employer or other trusted organization to obtain an NPI for you through bulk enumeration, or Electronic File Interchange (EFI). Regardless of how you obtain your NPI, it is important to retain the notification document that NPPES sends that contains your NPI (NPPES, 2023).
Discuss CEU requirements for your state for APRN certification renewal.
All advanced practice registered nurses shall complete 80 hours of approved continuing education in the advanced practice registered nurse’s specialty per 2-year license renewal cycle. Completion of the 80 hours under this subsection (a)(1)(C ) shall satisfy the continuing education requirements for renewal of a registered professional nurse license. An APRN holding more than one APRN license is required to complete 80 hours of continuing education total per license renewal period. The 80 hours of continuing education required shall be completed as follows: A minimum of 50 hours of the continuing education shall be obtained in continuing education programs that shall include no less than 20 hours of pharmacotherapeutics, including 10 hours of opioid prescribing or substance abuse education. A maximum of 30 hours of credit may be obtained by presentations in the APRN clinical specialty, evidence-based practice, or quality improvement projects, publications, research projects, or preceptor hours (IDFPR, 2023).
What information is required by your state to be on your prescription pad when prescribing controlled substances?
Full name and credentials of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Clearly state the APRN’s prescribing authority, including any relevant certifications or licenses. Provide the APRN’s contact information, including address, phone number, and email. Include the APRN’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration number for controlled substances. Include the National Provider Identifier (NPI) number, which is a unique identifier for healthcare providers. Specify the name and address of the APRN’s practice or healthcare facility. Clearly indicate the date on which the prescription is issued. Include the patient’s name, date of birth, and address. Clearly specify the name, strength, dosage form, quantity, and directions for use of the prescribed controlled substance. Indicate the duration for which the prescription is valid, including the number of refills allowed (IDFPR, 2023).
6. Discuss considerations for prescribing (non-controlled substances) when using telemedicine.
Prescribing non-controlled substances through telemedicine requires careful consideration to ensure patient safety, compliance with regulations, and the delivery of effective healthcare. an established patient-provider relationship before prescribing medications. Clarify and adhere to the requirements in the jurisdiction where you are practicing. Develop and maintain a comprehensive medical record that includes a thorough history, examination, and relevant diagnostic tests. Clearly communicate with patients about the limitations and benefits of telemedicine, including the potential risks and benefits of prescribed medication. Obtain informed consent for the use of telemedicine services and the prescribed medications. Conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and any relevant diagnostic results. Utilize telehealth tools effectively to gather necessary information and assess the patient’s condition. Obtain a comprehensive medical history, including information about allergies, current medications, and any past adverse reactions to medications. Verify the accuracy of the patient’s self-reported medical history. Adhere to evidence-based clinical guidelines when prescribing non-controlled substances. Stay informed about the latest research and updates related to the prescribed medications. Utilize secure and compliant electronic prescribing systems to send prescriptions directly to pharmacies. Confirm the prescription reaches the pharmacy and is accurately dispensed. Provide adequate patient education about the prescribed medications, including dosage, administration instructions, potential side effects, and interactions with other drugs. Address any concerns or questions the patient may have about the prescribed medication. Maintain detailed and accurate documentation of the telemedicine encounter, including the rationale for prescribing, patient instructions, and any follow-up recommendations. Ensure secure storage and accessibility of electronic medical records (Fields, 2020).
References
American Association of Nurse Practitioners. (2023). State Practice Environment. AANP. https://www.aanp.org/advocacy/state/state-practice-environment
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2023). Medicare Provider/Supplier Enrollment Applications. https://www.cms.gov/medicare/provider-enrollment-and-certification/medicareprovidersupenroll/downloads/enrollmentsheet_wwwwh.pdf
Fields B. G. (2020). Regulatory, Legal, and Ethical Considerations of Telemedicine. Sleep medicine clinics, 15(3), 409–416. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsmc.2020.06.004
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. (2023). APN Controlled Substance User Guide https://idfpr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idfpr/forms/online/-309-apn-controlled-substance-user-guide.pdf
National Plan and Provider Enumeration System. (2023). Home. U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/#/
