Scope of practice broadened for respiratory therapy services

Nurse practitioners and physician assistants could order respiratory therapy services under a bill advanced from general file March 22.

LB788, introduced by Lincoln Sen. Kathy Campbell, would change current state statute to reflect the standards adopted by the federal government and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

A Health and Human Services Committee amendment, adopted 32-0, would extend the scope of practice to include certified residential nurse anesthetists.

Senators advanced the bill to select file on a 32-0 vote.