| المستخلص: |
Background: Since the emergence of nurse practitioner (NP) role in the 1960s in the USA, the implantation of their role has faced difficulties. In particular, the aspect of prescribing medications role is a focus of debate historically. There are claims that NPs are not equipped sufficiently to handle this serious role and hence their authority should be restricted. Objectives: To answer the two questions: “a) What does the literature report about research into prescribing activities of NPs in the USA?, and b) What are the factors influencing the NPs’ prescribing activities?” Method: An integrative method was used for this review to explore, analyse, and investigate the available evidence on thistopic. CINAHL and MEDLINE databases were both used to research for literature focusing on studies published in English from 1960, onwards and that discuss the American situation of nurse practitioners. Twenty-one studies were included in this review: sixteen studies used quantitative and five used qualitative methods. Findings from the studies were classified under five themes:a) Educational levels appropriate for an NP; b) Effects of practice settings; c) Levels of prescribing authority and autonomy; d) Prescribing patterns and quality; and e) The influence of pharmaceutical companies. Conclusions: The belief that nurse practitioners are not competent as prescribers is not supported by the literature. They receive sufficient education and training to practice safely. Regulations act as barriers to practising of NP role to its full extent. There are hidden financial goals that drive these legislations rather than the clinical aspect of the profession.
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