H.B. 548 Summary

• Amends sections 4723.43, 4723.44, 4729.01, and 4761.17 of the Revised Code regarding certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) authority over drugs and clinical support functions.

• Grants CRNAs explicit authority to select, order, and administer appropriate drugs consistent with their education and certification, either authorized by medical staff clinical privileges or within the supervising physician/podiatrist/dentist's scope of practice.

• Allows CRNAs to direct other licensed or certified persons to administer drugs or perform clinical support functions within those persons' scope of practice.

• Clarifies that drug orders by CRNAs are valid only in the facility or setting where anesthesia services are being provided and that CRNAs are not required to obtain a separate certificate to prescribe.

• Provides liability protection for supervising physicians, podiatrists, or dentists unless they exercised control over or participated in actions or omissions of the supervised CRNA.