Registered nurses will now have the ability to prescribe medications.

Amendments have been made to the Registered Nurses Regulations to give RNs the power to prescribe medications, order laboratory and diagnostic screening tests and referrals to specialists.

Government says a framework has been developed in collaboration with the College of Registered Nurses, which includes a requirement for RNs to complete additional prescribing education through a program approved by the college.

Other amendments will also see the implementation of a Supervised Practice Experience Partnership Program, which aims to provide an alternative, practice-based path to licensure for RN applicants who have not practiced enough hours to meet requirements.

College of Registered Nurses NL Executive director Lynn Power touts the announcement as good news for registered nurses.

She this this is an opportunity for registered nurses to work to their full scope of practice, work more in a team approach, and be more independent. She believes RNs will be proud of the work they can now do.