| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Health Care & Wellness Committee | |
HB 2497
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Repealing RCW 18.79.255.
Sponsors: Representative Green.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/14/08
Staff: Chris Blake (786-7392).
Background:
Advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNP) are registered nurses with formal specialized
training which qualifies them to function in a variety of health care specialties with more
independence than a registered nurse. Advanced registered nurse practitioners may have
specialties in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, midwifery, anesthesiology, or neonatology.
This additional training allows ARNPs to assume primary care responsibilities for a broad range
of patient care beyond the practice of registered nurses, including the prescribing of medications.
Advanced registered nurse practitioners may prescribe schedule II through IV controlled
substances in either of two circumstances. First, ARNPs who are certified registered nurse
anesthetists may select, order, and administer Schedule II through IV controlled substances for
anesthesia services at the request of a physician, osteopathic physician, dentist, or podiatrist.
Second, ARNPs may order or prescribe Schedule II through IV controlled substances as
permitted by their scope of practice, but are limited to dispensing no more than a 72-hour supply.
Summary of Bill:
The limitation on ARNPs dispensing more than a 72-hour supply of Schedule II through IV
controlled substances is repealed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.