Self Reflection In Advanced Pharmacology

Pharmacology Self Reflections

Neida Blondet

Frontier Nursing University

Prescribing medications to patients is a part of the advanced practice registered nurse’s (ARNP) role. As I started Advanced Pharmacology a few short eleven weeks ago, I did not realize how much more there was to that “simple” task. As I reflect on my journey through Advanced Pharmacology, I will share with you a few important facts about my journey, such as how my expectations of prescribing changed, any ah ha moments I had, what I felt to be the most significant piece of knowledge I acquired and finally what I think about Florida’s approved medication schedule for ARNPs.

As I began Advanced Pharmacology, my perception of prescribing medications was that it

The one piece of information I found most significant for me is, the ARNP and patient must negotiate a plan of care. This concept is so important for the sake of trust and compliance. The need for negotiations can be due to factors that can affect a patients’ compliance which can range from cost, timing, ethnicity and culture, language, and a whole host of other barriers. Patients need to understand why this medication is being prescribed and the education you are providing them will gain their buy in. For example, if a medication is too costly, or the side effects are unacceptable to them, the ARNP needs to find an alternative treatment that fits their budget and has acceptable outcomes. Then, there can be that buy in and compliance to their treatment regimens. In the same token the patient feels a part of his or her

Prescriptions for Schedule II are limited to a seven-day supply (exception for psychiatric ARNPs). ARNPs cannot prescribe psychotropic medications to patients younger than 18, (exception for psychiatric ARNPs). DEA numbers must be applied for and acquired before prescribing. Only Doctors of Medical or Osteopathic Medicine may prescribe pain medications in the Pain Management setting. Mandatory three CEUs devoted to safe and effective prescribing of controlled substances every two years. I have mixed feelings regarding all of Florida’s restrictions of ARNPs. On one hand, I consider it an honor to be given the ability to prescribe medications. I understand the need for guardrails, as no one provider will know it all, especially as a new provider with limited experience, such as I will be. I will take with me and use all the tools this course has provided me with to prescribe safely, such as how to use evidence, clinical resources, and guidelines. In the end, safety is of the utmost concern. I am excited to begin this journey and apprehensive as well, knowing the huge responsibility that comes with prescribing. On the other hand, in considering safety, Florida has a primary care physician shortage as of right now. I recall reading somewhere that half of Florida’s primary care physicians will reach retirement