The bill amends Chapter 5-34 of the General Laws regarding the administration of sedation by registered nurses (RNs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). It establishes that RNs and non-certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are prohibited from administering agents classified as general anesthetics, including specific agents like propofol, Etomidate, sodium thiopental, methohexital, and volatile gases (e.g., sevoflurane, isoflurane, desflurane), for any procedures.

However, it allows RNs and APRNs to initiate, titrate, and bolus intravenous/intraosseous (IV/IO) agents in critical life-saving situations, such as rapid sequence intubation or for patients who are tracheally intubated and mechanically ventilated. In emergency situations where there is an imminent threat to life or limb, RNs and APRNs may administer anesthetic medications to preserve patient life, including scenarios such as cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and increased intracranial pressure.

The bill also introduces similar provisions in Chapter 5-34.2, reiterating the restrictions on RNs and non-CRNA APRNs regarding the administration of general anesthetics while outlining the specific emergency circumstances under which they may safely administer sedation. The act emphasizes that these provisions are designed to ensure patient safety and delineate the scope of practice for RNs and APRNs in critical care settings. The bill will take effect upon passage.