Section 17-5708. SCOPE OF PRACTICE

 

5708.1In 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).