AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- NURSES .

Limits on nurses giving anesthesia

RNs and APRNs who are not licensed CRNAs cannot give general anesthetic drugs. Examples include propofol, etomidate, sodium thiopental, methohexital, and gases like sevoflurane, isoflurane, and desflurane. They also cannot give or manage deep sedation or general anesthesia for any procedure. Emergency exceptions apply. For rapid airway care, an RN may give IV/IO drugs as the "third hand" of an APRN or physician. An APRN trained in airway management and approved by their governing body may start and adjust IV/IO drugs. In life- or limb-threatening emergencies, RNs and APRNs may give anesthetic medicines, including during cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. In ER or ICU care, RNs or APRNs may give or adjust anesthetics for intubated, ventilated patients within scope and with approval. The law takes effect upon passage.