Summary

The discipline of evidence-based prescribing is relatively new to nurses and other non-medical prescribers. The introduction of clinical governance, which emphasises accountability, quality and efficiency, means that it is no longer acceptable to base clinical decisions on personal opinion. Prescribing itself is just one stage in making a rational treatment decision, which requires a fully structured approach. This article will highlight some of the considerations that the prescriber has to take into account, including: the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of treatment options, how to check the evidence, the benefits or harms of a treatment and, the patient's own involvement in the treatment plan.