Factors associated with independent nurse prescribers' antibiotic prescribing practice: a mixed-methods study using the Reasoned Action Approach

Abstract

Background: The number of nurse prescribers is increasing, yet little evidence exists about their antibiotic prescribing behaviour.

Aim: To measure nurse independent prescribers' (NIPs) intention to manage patients, presenting with an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) for the first time, without prescribing an antibiotic and to examine the determinants of this behaviour.

Methods: This was a mixed-method study using the Reasoned Action Approach (RAA). Content analysis of data from 27 telephone interviews with NIPs informed the development of a questionnaire which was tested for validity and reliability and used in a national survey of NIPs across Scotland. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was carried out to determine intention to manage patients without prescribing an antibiotic and the significant influences on this intention.

Findings: From 184 participants it was found that NIPs intended to manage patients, presenting with a URTI for the first time, without prescribing an antibiotic. Key determinants were perceived norm, perceived behavioural control, and moral norm. Significant beliefs were positive social influence from other non-medical prescribers (P = 0.007) and nurse prescribers (P = 0.045), the enablers of prescriber experience and confidence (P ≤ 0.001), and the barrier of pressure from patients/carers (P = 0.010).

Conclusion: The findings provide reassurance that NIPs intend to prescribe appropriately. The identification of nurse-specific barriers and enablers to this intention should be acknowledged and targeted in future interventions to manage this behaviour.

Keywords: Behaviour; Intention; Nurse; Prescribing; Reasoned Action Approach; Upper respiratory tract infections.