A study of prescribing patterns in the community.

Qualified nurse practitioners working in the community prescribe from a wide formulary. Despite degree level education, their prescriptions still have to be signed by a GP. This study describes the prescribing patterns of 41 nurse practitioners over one month. The medications prescribed were categorised and their frequency of prescription noted. The author notes the amount of time wasted by nurses waiting for a doctor's signature due to legal restrictions and states the case for autonomy in prescribing for nurse practitioners. The types of medication and situations where they are being prescribed are also discussed.