Bill > S0694

This bill establishes clear guidelines for the administration of sedation and anesthesia by registered nurses (RNs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). The bill specifically prohibits RNs and non-certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) from administering certain powerful sedative and anesthetic medications such as propofol, Etomidate, sodium thiopental, methohexital, and volatile anesthetic gases for general or surgical procedures. However, the bill does provide limited exceptions for emergency situations: RNs and APRNs may administer anesthetic medications in critical life-saving scenarios, such as facilitating emergency airway management, maintaining sedation for intubated patients, or responding to imminent threats to life or limb like cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. These exceptions are only permitted when the nurse is acting within their approved scope of practice and under the guidance of their governing body. The bill aims to ensure patient safety by restricting the administration of powerful anesthetic medications to specially trained and licensed professionals while allowing for necessary interventions in urgent medical circumstances. The legislation will take effect immediately upon its passage.

Health and Social Services

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