Anesthesia Protocol for Nurses Starting Early IVs: Q&A With Dr. Thomas Wherry and Cindy King of Health Inventures

Thomas Wherry, MD, is medical director for Health Inventures and medical director for Total Anesthesia Solutions, and Cindy A. King RN, CPHQ, is director of clinical, quality and compliance for Health Inventures.

Q: What is the suggested anesthesia protocol for nurses starting (initiating) the early IV starts on patients before the physicians and/or anesthesia provider arrive on the morning of surgery?

Dr. Thomas Wherry and Cindy King: As long as the following is in place, there should not be a problem (although always make sure to check state laws as well): pre-op standing orders from surgeon and/or anesthesiologist, facility policies/procedures, all which have been board-approved, and that corresponding competency has been demonstrated by involved staff members for IV starts.

Note: We would not suggest giving meds until your anesthesia provide arrives due to potential for reaction.

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