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 APRNs, excluding licensed certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and RNs enrolled in approved nurse anesthesiology training programs, are prohibited from administering medications classified as general anesthetics for any elective procedure.

However, it allows RNs and APRNs to initiate, titrate, and bolus intravenous/intraosseous (IV/IO) agents in critical life-saving situations requiring immediate airway management (such as rapid sequence intubation) or to maintain sedation for tracheally intubated and mechanically ventilated patients, provided they are acting under the direct supervision of a licensed APRN or physician. Additionally, in emergency situations, RNs and APRNs can administer anesthetic medications to preserve patient life, including but not limited to cases of cardiac arrest and respiratory failure, as long as they are acting within their scope of practice and approved by their governing body.

The bill also introduces similar provisions in Chapter 5-34.2, reiterating the restrictions on administering general anesthetics for elective procedures while outlining the limited circumstances under which RNs and APRNs can safely administer anesthesia in critical care settings or emergencies. The act aims to clarify the scope of practice for RNs and APRNs regarding sedation and anesthesia, ensuring patient safety while allowing for necessary interventions in life-threatening situations. The act will take effect upon passage.