SB 228 Summary

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

• Requires CRNAs to work under supervision of a physician, podiatrist, or dentist who is actively engaged in practice in Ohio; limits scope when supervised by podiatrist or dentist to procedures those professionals are authorized to perform.

• Permits CRNAs to perform clinical support functions using the same skills and competencies as their anesthesia activities, but only in facilities where they provide anesthesia care.

• Restricts medication orders issued during clinical support functions to administration occurring in the immediate presence of the CRNA.

• Adds CRNAs to the definition of "licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs" in pharmacy law and allows respiratory therapists to practice under medication orders issued by CRNAs in accordance with these provisions.