RN Prescribing

As of May 1, 2019, Alberta registered nurses (RNs) are authorized to prescribe common medications and order diagnostic tests, such as X-rays.

This new authority is limited to specific clinical practice areas where the employer has policies to support RN prescribing and a clinical support tool to clearly guide prescribing decisions.

The College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CARNA) requires Alberta RNs to complete this course before applying for prescribing authorization.

To see if you are eligible to become an RN prescriber, you should check directly with CARNA.

The 2 modules of Athabasca University’s RN Prescribing course will prepare you to meet the competencies for prescribing drugs and ordering diagnostic tests. They can be taken concurrently or sequentially.

Cost

  • Module 1: $300 + 5% GST ($15) = $315 (non-refundable)
  • Module 2: $600 + 5% GST ($30) = $630 (non-refundable)

Course goals

The RN Prescribing course builds on the basic foundational knowledge of pathophysiology, pharmacology, and patient assessment you have acquired as a registered nurse.

Successful completion of the course prepares you to meet CARNA’s requirements for prescribing drugs and ordering diagnostic tests.

A Certificate of Completion is awarded when you have successfully completed both modules of the course. For Alberta students, Athabasca University will also send a notice of course completion to CARNA.

If you have questions, please email fhd-pd@athabascau.ca.

Updated August 26, 2024 by Digital & Web Operations (web_services@athabascau.ca)