chapter 28 Practical Considerations
The following are frequently asked questions that relate to intravenous (IV) moderate sedation.
Many dentists wish to delegate the duties of venipuncture and drug administration to auxiliary personnel (i.e., the dental assistant, registered dental assistant, dental hygienist, or registered nurse). Although the Dental Practice Act in each state must be consulted for specific regulations, it is the law in most states that only the dentist (DDS, DMD or equivalent, or MD) or a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) may perform venipuncture and administer IV drugs. In some states, registered nurses (RNs) may perform venipuncture. As mentioned in Chapter 24, an auxiliary may perform virtually all of the duties relating to the IV moderate sedation procedure except for venipuncture and drug administration.