LAC 48:I.4435. Intra-operative Procedures

A. The outpatient abortion facility shall ensure that emergency medical equipment and supplies as required by the governing body, medical director and medical staff are available for intra-operative care and shall include, but are not limited to: 1. surgical or gynecologic table; 2. surgical instrumentation; 3. emergency drugs for stabilizing and/or treating medical and surgical complications as approved by the medical director; 4. oxygen; 5. intravenous fluids; and 6. sterile dressing supplies. B. The outpatient abortion facility shall ensure that the medical equipment required for an abortion shall be maintained and immediately available to the physician in the procedure and/or post-anesthesia recovery area to provide emergency medical care and treatment. C. During the abortion procedure, the patient shall be assessed and monitored by a licensed nurse for the following: level of consciousness, respiratory status, cardio-vascular status, and any potential adverse outcomes related to the abortion procedure such as adverse drug reactions, uncontrolled or excessive bleeding, etc. The results of this assessment shall be documented in the patient’s medical record by the licensed nurse. D. Immediately following the abortion procedure and prior to transfer to post-anesthesia recovery area, the patient shall be assessed and monitored by a licensed nurse for the following: level of consciousness, respiratory status, cardio-vascular status, and any potential adverse outcomes related to the abortion procedure. The results of this assessment shall be documented in the patient’s medical record by the licensed nurse.