5708. SCOPE OF PRACTICE

5708 SCOPE OF PRACTICE 5708.1 In addition to the general functions specified in § 5700, a nurse-anesthetist may perform all of the functions listed below, to include: (a) Determining the health status of the patient as it relates to the relative risks associated with the anesthetic management of the patient; (b) Based on history, physical assessment, and supplemental laboratory results, determining appropriate type of anesthesia; (c) Ordering pre-anesthetic medication; (d) Performing procedures commonly used to render the patient insensible to pain during the performance of surgical, obstetrical, therapeutic, or diagnostic clinical procedures. This shall include ordering and administering: (1) General and regional anesthesia; (2) Inhalation agents and techniques; (3) Intravenous agents and techniques; and (4) Techniques of hypnosis; (e) Order or perform monitoring procedures indicated as pertinent to the anesthetic health care management of the patient; (f) Support life functions during anesthesia health care, including inductions and intubation procedures, the use of appropriate mechanical supportive devices, and the management of fluid, electrolyte, and blood component balances; (g) Recognize and take appropriate corrective action for abnormal patient responses to anesthesia, adjunctive medication, or other forms of therapy; (h) Recognize and treat cardiac arrhythmia while the patient is under anesthetic care; (i) Management of the patient while in the post-anesthesia recovery phase, including post-anesthesia evaluation of the patient, ordering the administration of fluids and drugs, discharging of the patient; (j) Place peripheral and central venous and arterial lines for blood sampling and monitoring as appropriate; and (k) Such other functions and services the Board deems appropriate upon review and analysis of professional and association literature which articulates scopes and standards for nurse-anesthetist practice. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 36 DCR 3491, 3493 (May 12, 1989); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 49 DCR 11751 (December 27, 2002).