Final answer:
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) have prescriptive authority in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, but the scope of their authority can differ.
Step-by-step explanation:
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice registered nurses specializing in women's health and childbirth. They have the authority to prescribe medication and treatments in certain states in the United States.
The prescription authority granted to CNMs varies from state to state. Currently, CNMs have prescriptive authority in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, but the scope of their authority can differ. In some states, CNMs have autonomous prescriptive authority, meaning they can prescribe independently without a physician's collaboration or supervision.
For example, in California, CNMs have full prescriptive authority and can prescribe a wide range of medications, including contraceptives and certain controlled substances. However, in other states, CNMs may have restricted authority and may be required to have a collaborative or supervisory relationship with a physician. This means that they can prescribe medications, but they may need the approval or oversight of a physician.