NY A04985

Establishes a certification process for registered nurse anesthetists requiring licensure as a registered professional nurse, completion of an accredited nurse anesthesia program, passing a national certifying examination, and payment of a $50 initial certification fee plus $30 triennial registration fee

Requires nurse anesthetists to administer anesthesia only under supervision of an anesthesiologist who is immediately available, or under supervision of an operating physician, dentist, oral surgeon, or podiatrist who is physically present

Restricts use of the titles "nurse anesthetist" and "certified registered nurse anesthetist" to persons certified under the new requirements, and prohibits unlicensed individuals from using the title "anesthesiologist"

Defines key terms including "general anesthesia," "conscious sedation," "regional anesthesia," "supervision," "immediately available," and "physically present" to establish clear standards for anesthesia practice

Provides a one-year transition period for currently practicing nurse anesthetists to obtain certification, with sections taking effect on the first of April following enactment