Mismatched expectations: Experiences of nurses returning to prescribing

Abstract

Background Research has identified continuing professional development (CPD) for active prescribers to be a challenge, particularly identifying a lack of confidence and anxiety around prescribing (Weglicki et al 2015). Anecdotally support to regain their prescribing knowledge and competence to facilitate safe prescribing requires some exploration for organisations, mangers and those practitioners. Aim The aim of this research is to gain an insight into practitioners’ experience of returning to prescribing in their clinical role following a period on non-activity. Methods, Online semi- structured interviews with 5 prescribers were conducted with interview transcripts thematically analysed by the research team. Findings,; four findings were found to be relevant individual, the team, organisation and the mismatch between these. Conclusion Considering these results are important to support those who return to prescribing to ensure safe and effective practice and a positive experience for all involved.