The bill H. 4044 aims to amend the South Carolina Nurse Practice Act by making significant changes to the regulations surrounding Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). It proposes to remove the definitions related to "approved written guidelines" for CRNAs from Section 40-33-20 and eliminate the requirement for supervised practice in Section 40-33-34. Additionally, the bill grants CRNAs prescriptive authority, allowing them to prescribe medications within their specialty, while also establishing specific requirements for obtaining and maintaining this authority.

Furthermore, the bill repeals Section 40-47-197, which pertains to the supervision of CRNAs by physicians and dentists, thereby removing the supervisory requirement altogether. The changes are designed to enhance the autonomy of CRNAs in their practice, streamline their ability to provide anesthesia care, and allow them to prescribe medications without the need for direct supervision. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
02/19/2025: 40-33-20, 40-33-34, 40-47-197
02/25/2025: 40-33-20, 40-33-34, 40-47-197
Latest Version: 40-33-20, 40-33-34, 40-47-197