The Government of Alberta has expanded the Psychiatric Nursing practice in Alberta as of June 2, 2021. Registered psychiatric nurses (RPNs) registered with the College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta (CRPNA) who meet specific requirements can become authorized to prescribe Schedule 1 drugs (except controlled drugs and substances) and order diagnostic tests within a particular clinical practice setting.

Before RPNs can apply for authorization, they must first:

• Hold an active permit and be in good standing with CRPNA
• Have at least 3,000 clinical practice hours as an RPN
• Have at least 750 practice hours in the practice setting/location in which they are seeking authorization to prescribe
• Complete the Athabasca University RPN Prescribing Course
• Have employer support including an employer reference, employer policies, clinical support tools and collaborative practice relationships in the workplace

With the regulatory changes, RPNs will be able to:

• Order or apply non-ionizing radiation in ultrasound imaging (other than the application of ultrasound to a fetus)
• Order ionizing radiation in medical radiography
• Prescribe a Schedule 1 drug and order diagnostic tests, with additional education

For further information, please visit the CRPNA website.

NOTE: In the College’s Fall 2019 newsletter, information was shared regarding registered nurses and nurse practitioners expanding their nursing practice in Alberta on May 1, 2019.