Abstract
This introductory statement draws together key findings and implications of my published work on nurse prescribing in England. A review of literature available in 2006 (when I began this work), illustrates that although advances had been made in the evaluation of community nurse prescribing, little research had been undertaken on the more recently introduced nurse independent and nurse supplementary prescribing. As these latter forms of prescribing were open to nurses from a range of clinical backgrounds and work settings, further research was required to evaluate their impact and to inform service development. Furthermore, there had been no evaluation of the extension of nurse independent prescribing rights in 2006. The publications contribute to understanding the impact of nurse prescribing and the factors that influence its uptake, use and development in the areas of pain, dermatology and diabetes. Publications result from my contribution to five projects using a range of methods, although seven of the eight publications report on qualitative interview data from key stakeholders. After outlining key issues in the three treatment areas, the discussion focuses on the contribution that these publications make to knowledge and understanding about how nurse prescribing impacts on patient-care, inter-professional relationships and the role of the nurse. Factors influencing the implementation and use of nurse prescribing in the three treatment areas are detailed. Key methodological issues are presented in relation to interview study, questionnaire survey and the case study approach. Theoretical implications are explored using the principles of realistic evaluation to generate theoretical propositions based on the cumulative research evidence provided. From this, a framework is presented that identifies factors for consideration for the successful implementation of non-medical prescribing. It is anticipated that this framework, once tested and refined through future research, will provide guidance to commissioners and managers wishing to initiate or extend non-medical prescribing.