The Impact of Independent Chemotherapy Prescribing by Advanced Practice Providers on Patient Safety and Clinician Satisfaction

Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2024 Jul 19;28(4):397-405. doi: 10.1188/24.CJON.397-405.

Abstract

Background: Literature on advanced practice providers (APPs) prescribing chemotherapy independently, without physician cosignature, is limited.

Objectives: This project assessed safety and provider satisfaction for an existing independent APP chemotherapy prescribing privilege at a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center.

Methods: Rate of Reporting to Improve Safety and Quality events associated with APPs with independent chemotherapy prescribing privileges was compared to that of physicians during a three-year period. Satisfaction of APPs with independent chemotherapy prescribing privileges was evaluated.

Findings: The odds of a reported event were higher for physicians than for APPs. APP survey responses were positive for readiness, confidence, and satisfaction with independent chemotherapy prescribing privilege.

Keywords: advanced practice provider; chemotherapy prescribing; nurse practitioner.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Advanced Practice Nursing / standards
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Drug Prescriptions / standards
  • Drug Prescriptions / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Patient Safety* / standards
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents