An understanding of controlled substances is key to safe prescribing for the Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP). In this presentation, the ANP will learn about state and federal laws that apply when prescribing controlled substances, with attention to ethical considerations and rules of prescribing. The ANP needs to understand the indications and contraindications for controlled substances, particularly Schedule II drugs, including their use for pain management in pediatric and geriatric populations. The session provides an overview of opioid and non-opioid controlled substances, along with strategies for preventing misuse and diversion, including state reporting systems and the implementation and use of prescription drug monitoring programs. The topics will include:
- Rules of prescribing
- The Five Schedules
- Prescriptive authority
- Drug monitoring programs
- The basics and types of pain
- Geriatric and pediatric patients
- Opioids
- Non-opioid controlled substances