Pharmacotherapeutic Preparation for Nurse Practitioner Full Practice Authority

Nurse practitioners (NPs) across the country are gaining full practice authority that includes authorization to prescribe legend and controlled drugs. Unrestricted prescriptive authority is necessary for NPs to practice to the full extent of their education and training. We reviewed the literature, state requirements, and accreditation criteria related to teaching advanced pharmacology content to NP students for preparation for prescribing. Nursing educators and advanced practice nursing leaders might consider establishment of standardized content for teaching advanced pharmacology to NP students to ensure graduates meet prescribing requirements for full practice authority. •Advanced pharmacology courses must prepare nurse practitioners for full practice authority.•Awareness of state prescribing requirements necessary for full practice authority.•Competencies may be key to unifying prescription privilege eligibility.