Which statement best describes prescriptive authority for CRNAs?

• A. It varies by state practice acts; some grant independent authority
• B. It is identical across all states
• C. It is prohibited for CRNAs
• D. It is governed by federal law only

Answer: (A)

Prescriptive authority for CRNAs is determined by state practice acts and boards, not a uniform national rule. Because health care regulation is primarily state-based, each state can set its own rules about what CRNAs may prescribe, under what supervision or collaboration, and which medications are allowed. In some states CRNAs have independent prescribing authority within their scope of practice; in others, prescribing requires physician collaboration or supervision, and in some places there are additional limits or required protocols. Federal law provides broad guidelines but does not establish a single nationwide standard for CRNA prescribing. This variability across states is exactly what the statement captures.