H.B. 485 Summary

• Authorizes certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) to issue written, oral, or electronic medication orders directing licensed nurses, respiratory therapists, or other authorized individuals to administer drugs during anesthesia-related patient care phases without requiring a prescribing certificate.

• Permits CRNAs to perform preanesthetic preparation and evaluation, postanesthesia care, and clinical support functions only in facilities where they administer anesthesia and using skills directly related to anesthesia care.

• Requires CRNAs to work under supervision of a physician, podiatrist, or dentist actively engaged in practice in Ohio, with specific scope limitations when supervised by podiatrists (no general anesthesia in offices) or dentists (no medication orders in dental offices).

• Adds CRNAs to the definition of "licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs" in pharmacy law for purposes of ordering drug administration during authorized anesthesia care phases.

• Allows respiratory therapists to practice under medication orders issued by CRNAs in accordance with the new authority granted by this bill.