ADMINISTRATION OF ANESTHETIC AGENTS BY THE RN

  PRACTICE STATEMENT

It is within the Scope of Practice for the Registered Nurse to administer pharmaceutical drugs classified as anesthetic agents used for the purpose of sedation for the patient in a controlled environment with a secure airway and if the following requirements are met:  

A. Written policy and procedures are maintained by the facility.
B. Has completed a formal, continuing education program.
C. Has supervised clinical practice.
D. Has been authorized to perform the procedure.
E. Documentation of satisfactory completion of the course of instruction and supervised practice is on file with the employer.
F. Has qualified backup available.

 A licensed nurse who is not a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist may not administer general anesthesia or conscious/moderate sedation, if the drug manufacturer’s general warning advises the drug should be administered and monitored by persons experienced in the use of general anesthesia who are not involved in the conduct of the surgical and/or diagnostic procedure. 

Administration or management of patients receiving anesthetic agents used for the purpose of sedation is outside of the scope of practice of the LPN.

Adopted:  3/05; rev 1/06