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Rep. Khan Announces Nurse Anesthetist Bill Signed Into Law
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Boston, MA - Representative Kay Khan is pleased to announce that her legislation, An Act Relative to Nurse Anesthetists (H. 2082) was signed into law yesterday by Governor Patrick. This bill will give nurse anesthetists the authority to order tests and therapeutics, as well as prescribe medications in the “immediate peri-operative period”. There has been much confusion over the ability of nurse anesthetists to write prescriptions and order tests related to pre- and post-anesthesia care. This dilemma has made it more difficult for nurse anesthetists to deliver quality care to patients in pre- and post-operative settings. With this clearly defined authority, nurse anesthetists will be able to assess and evaluate patients for anesthesia and surgery, as well as order lab testing and medications before and after surgery. Examples of pre-op tests include cardiac consults, blood tests, pulmonary function tests (PFT), EKGs, neurological consults, X-Rays, etc. Examples of pre-op medications include pain medications, antibiotics, anti-anxiety drugs and prophylactic medications for nausea. The Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist will also be better able to manage patients in the recovery room, such as monitoring pain management. There are 721 nurse anesthetists who are recognized in Massachusetts, as advanced practice nurses (APNs). Massachusetts now joins 25 other states and the District of Columbia in authorizing nurse anesthetists to write prescriptions. The Massachusetts Association of Nurse Anesthetists played a tremendous role in helping pass this legislation, and Governor Patrick’s support has facilitated this effort to provide better care to patients pre- and post-surgery. ### | ||