GUMBO - Lagniappe 6 - Nurse Practitioner's legal obligations when prescribing medications

Summary:   The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) may have prescriptive authority in the state in which he/she practices. This is an added responsibility that allows the APRN to function at a high level of practice. Patients can decide to see the Mental Health APRN for treatment of mild depression. Once the provider determines that the patient may benefit from some form of pharmacotherapy, it is incumbent on the APRN to do his/her due diligence and educate the patient on drug-drug interactions and side effects as necessary. Patients can file for damages in court if an APRN is found neglectful of these duties. Brent (2016) tells of one such case occurred in Missouri. Brent, N.J. (2016). NPs must know legal obligations when prescribing medications. Nurse.com. Retrieved from https://www.nurse.com/blog/2016/06/01/nps-must-know-legal-obligations-when-prescribing-medications/ Junius-Arcemont, S.M. (2018). PTSD and the Treatment with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, pp. 12-13. Southeastern University Louisiana. Hammond.   LINK TO AMAZON!! https://www.amazon.com/dp/069213574X?ref=myi_title_dp ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/069213574X?ref=myi_title_dp) GUMBO Educational Services is a Non-Profit Organization that believes in: MISSION STATEMENT Sharing knowledge and educating those in the community for a healthier stronger safer community. MOTTO: GUMBO We'll teach your Grandma, Uncles, Mama, Brothers and Others