Bill > A06958

This bill creates a new article in the education law to define the practice of certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). The key provisions are: 1. It defines the scope of practice for CRNAs, which includes administering anesthesia, performing pre-anesthetic assessments, selecting and administering anesthetic agents, managing patient airways and cardiopulmonary status, and prescribing certain tests and treatments related to anesthesia care. 2. It requires CRNAs with less than 3,600 hours of practice experience to work under the direction of a qualified physician, dentist, or podiatrist. After 3,600 hours, CRNAs can function in an interdependent role as part of a patient-care team. 3. It establishes licensing requirements for CRNAs, including holding a master's degree or higher in nurse anesthesia, passing an exam, and meeting character and other qualifications. 4. It allows the issuance of limited permits for CRNAs who meet most but not all licensing requirements. 5. It exempts certain activities, such as those performed by nursing students or military/federal agency nurse anesthetists, from the new CRNA licensing requirements. 6. It allows existing CRNA practitioners who do not meet the new educational requirements to continue practicing if they meet other qualifications and apply for a license within 3 years.