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 practice authority, allowing them to prescribe medications within their specialty, including certain controlled substances, under specific conditions.

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 amendments also establish new guidelines for CRNAs regarding the documentation and review of their practice protocols, as well as the process for obtaining and renewing prescriptive authority. The changes are intended to enhance the autonomy of CRNAs in their practice while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. The act 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