TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 5. STATE BOARD OF DENTAL EXAMINERS

Chapter 108. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

Subchapter A. PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY

22 TAC §108.6

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §108.6, Report of Patient Death or Injury requiring Hospitalization. Paragraph (1) is modified to require that a patient death occurring as a consequence of receiving dental services must be reported within 72 hours of the time when the reporting dentist knew or should have known of the death. This time is shortened from 30 days. Paragraph (2) is changed to reflect that a report of injury occurring as a consequence of receiving dental services must be reported within 30 days. Paragraph (3) is changed to add the words "...or injury..." to the paragraph, as an event that triggers the necessity for a report to the Board.

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five-year period the amended rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local or state government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of amending the rule is that the proper emphasis will be placed upon the unfortunate circumstance of the death of a patient as a consequence of receiving dental services. Such an event requires timely inquiry and investigation and the Board is of the opinion that 30 days is too long a period of time to wait before reporting a patient death.

There will be no fiscal implications for small or large businesses. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small businesses when compared to large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512-463-6400). To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners on or before May 27, 2001.

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et.seq; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§108.6.Report of Patient Death or Injury Requiring Hospitalization.

A dentist must submit a written report to the Board as provided below: [ within 30 days after; ]

(1)

The death of a dental patient which occurred as a consequence of the receipt of dental services from the reporting dentist must be reported within 72 hours of the death, or such time as the dentist becomes aware or reasonably should have become aware of the death ; [ or ]

(2)

An injury to a dental patient requiring admission to a hospital, as a consequence of receiving dental services from the reporting dentist must be reported within 30 days of the injury .

(3)

The receipt of the report shall not be considered in the nature of a complaint unless the Enforcement Committee determines that the circumstances surrounding the patient death or injury should be investigated by the Board.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 13, 2001.

TRD-200102123

Jeffry Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


Subchapter C. ANESTHESIA AND ANESTHETIC AGENTS

22 TAC §108.32

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §108.32 Minimum Standard of Care, Anesthesia. The lead paragraph has been modified to delete the word "...parenteral..." as a modifier of "deep sedation and general anesthesia". Deletion of the word "parenteral" when it is such a modifier in §§108.32 - 108.34 has the effect of requiring that all licensees who administer deep sedation and/or general anesthesia must have a permit to do so, whether the sedative agents are administered parenterally or by any other route. Without this change, dentists, by use of orally administered sedative agents, could deeply sedate patients without having a permit.

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five-year period the amended rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local or state government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of amending the rule is that dentists who intend to administer deep sedation and/or general anesthesia must be permitted to do so, no matter how the sedative agents are administered.

There will be no fiscal implications for small or large businesses. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small businesses when compared to large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512-463-6400). To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners on or before May 27, 2001.

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et.seq; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§108.32.Minimum Standard of Care, Anesthesia.

In the interest of patient safety, a dentist licensed by the State Board of Dental examiners and practicing in Texas, who desires to utilize nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation, parenteral conscious sedation, and/or [ parenteral ] deep sedation and general anesthesia:

(1)

Shall maintain a patient record:

(A)

from which a diagnosis may be made;

(B)

which includes a description of treatment rendered;

(C)

includes the date on which treatment is performed; and

(D)

which includes any information a reasonable and prudent dentist in the same or similar circumstances would include.

(2)

Shall maintain and review an initial medical history and perform limited physical evaluation for all dental patients to wit:

(A)

The initial medical history shall include, but shall not necessarily be limited to, known allergies to drugs, serious illness, current medications, previous hospitalizations and significant surgery, and a review of the physiologic systems obtained by patient history. A "check list", for consistency, may be utilized in obtaining initial information. The dentist shall review the medical history with the patient at any time a reasonable and prudent dentist in the same or similar circumstance would so do.

(B)

The initial limited physical examination should include, but shall not necessarily be limited to, blood pressure and pulse/heart rate as may be indicated for each patient.

(3)

Shall obtain an review an updated medical history and limited physical evaluation when a reasonable and prudent dentist under the same or similar circumstances would determine it is indicated.

(4)

Shall, for office emergencies:

(A)

maintain a positive pressure breathing apparatus including oxygen which shall be in working order.

(B)

maintain other emergency equipment and/or currently dated drugs as a reasonable and prudent dentist with the same or similar training and experience in the same or similar circumstances would maintain;

(C)

provide training to dental office personnel in emergency procedures which shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, basic cardiac life support, inspection and utilization of emergency equipment in the dental office, and office procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency as determined by a reasonable and prudent dentist in the same or similar circumstances; and

(D)

shall adhere to generally accepted protocols and/or standards of care for management of complications and emergencies.

(5)

Shall successfully complete a current course in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation given or approved by either the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.

(6)

Should maintain a written informed consent signed by the patient, or a parent or legal guardian of the patient if the patient is a minor, or a legal guardian of the patient if the patient has been adjudicated incompetent to manage the patient's personal affairs. Such consent is required for all procedures where a reasonable possibility of complications from the procedure exists, and such consent should disclose risks or hazards that could influence a reasonable person in making a decision to give or withhold consent.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 13, 2001.

TRD-200102124

Jeffry Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


22 TAC §108.33

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §108.33 Sedation/Anesthesia Permit The modifier "...parenteral..." has been deleted before "deep sedation and general anesthesia" in Subsections (b), (c), (f)(5), (f)(5)(A), (g)(3), (g)(3)(A), (g)(3)(A)(ii), (g)(3)(B), and (g)(3)(B)(i), (ii), and (iii). Deletion of the word "parenteral" when it is such a modifier in §§108.32 - 108.34 has the effect of requiring that all licensees who administer deep sedation and/or general anesthesia must have a permit to do so, whether the sedative agents are administered parenterally or by any other route. Without this change, dentists, by use of orally administered sedative agents, could deeply sedate patients without having a permit. The language of subsection (g)(2)(A)(i) has been modified to substitute the words "for the" in place of "in" and to add the words "technique requested." Parenteral conscious sedation can be achieved intramuscularly, subcutaneously, intravenously or submucosally. These changes clarify that an applicant for a parenteral conscious sedation permit must have received training in the particular technique or techniques that he/she will utilize to achieve parenteral conscious sedation. Clause ii has been modified to add the words "...the parenteral conscious sedation technique requested."

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five-year period the amended rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local or state government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of amending the rule is that dentists who intend to administer deep sedation and/or general anesthesia must be permitted to do so, no matter how the sedative agents are administered. Further, the public will be assured that one who holds a permit for a particular technique of administering parenteral conscious sedation will have received training in that particular technique.

There will be no fiscal implications for small or large businesses. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small businesses when compared to large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512-463-6400). To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners on or before May 27, 2001.

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et.seq; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§108.33.Sedation/Anesthesia Permit.

(a)

The State Board of Dental Examiners shall appoint advisory consultants for advice and recommendations to the Board on permit requirements, applicant and facility approval.

(b)

A dentist licensed by the State Board of Dental Examiners and practicing in Texas, who desires to utilize nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation, parenteral conscious sedation, and/or [ parenteral ] deep sedation and general anesthesia, must obtain a permit from the State Board of Dental Examiners for the requested procedure.

(1)

A permit may be obtained by completing an application form approved by the State Board of Dental Examiners, a copy of which may be obtained from the SBDE.

(2)

The application form must be filled out completely and appropriate fees paid.

(3)

Prior to issuance of a sedation/anesthesia permit the Board may require that the applicant undergo a facility inspection or further review of anesthesia credentials. The SBDE may direct an Anesthesia Consultant, who has been appointed by the Board, to assist in this inspection or review. The applicant will be notified in writing if an inspection is required and provided with the name of an Anesthesia Consultant who will coordinate the inspection. The applicant must make arrangements for completion of the inspection within 180 days of the date the notice is mailed. An extension of no more than 90 days may be granted if the designated Anesthesia Consultant requests one.

(4)

An applicant for a sedation/anesthesia permit must be licensed and in good standing with the State Board of Dental Examiners. For purposes of Rules 108.30 through 108.34, of this title (relating to Anesthesia and Anesthetic Agents) "good standing" means that a licensee is not suspended, whether or not the suspension is probated. Applications from licensees who are not in good standing may not be approved.

(c)

Any dentist approved by the State Board of Dental Examiners under previous rules prior to the effective date of this section for the utilization of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation, parenteral conscious sedation, or [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia, except as described in subsection (d) of this section, shall remain permitted provided that the appropriate fees have been paid and that the dentist has a current license.

(d)

Once a permit is issued, the State Board of Dental Examiners upon payment of required fees shall automatically renew the permit annually unless after notice and opportunity for hearing the Board finds the permit holder has, or is likely to provide anesthesia services in a manner that does not meet the minimum standard of care. At such hearing the Board shall consider factors including patient complaints, morbidity, mortality, and anesthesia consultant recommendations.

(e)

Annual dental license renewal certificates shall include the annual permit renewal, except as provided for in subsection (d) of this section and shall be assessed an annual renewal fee of $5.00 payable with the license renewal. New permit fees are $28.75 payable with the application for permit.

(f)

Permit Restrictions:

(1)

A sedation/anesthesia permit is valid for the dentist's facility, if any, as well as any satellite facility.

(2)

Portability of a sedation/anesthesia permit will be granted to a dentist who, after September 1, 2000, applies for portability if the dentist is granted:

(A)

a deep sedation/general anesthesia permit; or

(B)

an intravenous parenteral conscious sedation permit if training for the permit was obtained on the basis of completion of

(i)

a specialty program approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, or

(ii)

a general practice residency, approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, or

(iii)

an advanced education in general dentistry program, approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, or

(iv)

a Continuing Education (CE) program specifically approved by the SBDE. The board may approve a graduate of a CE program under this subsection only if the applicant can demonstrate administration of intravenous parenteral conscious sedation in at least 30 cases that are documented showing provision of anesthesia services in keeping with the standard of care as determined by one or more of the SBDE's anesthesia consultants; and the applicant establishes that the program consisted of

(I)

sixty hours of didactic courses;

(II)

administration of intravenous parenteral conscious sedation in at least 20 cases where the applicant was the anesthesia provider.

(3)

When anesthesia services are provided by a dentist at a location other than a facility or a satellite facility, the dentist shall strictly adhere to all rules of the State Board of Dental Examiners which may apply. The dentist shall ascertain that the location is supplied, equipped, staffed and maintained in a condition to support provision of anesthesia services that meet the standard of care.

(4)

A dentist holding a permit to administer parenteral conscious sedation on the effective date of this rule who is qualified by training or experience to administer intravenous parenteral conscious sedation anesthesia on a portable basis, and who desires to do so must file with the State Board of Dental Examiners proof of completion of:

(A)

a specialty program approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, or

(B)

a general practice residency approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, or

(C)

an advanced education in a general dentistry program approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, or

(D)

a Continuing Education program and administration of intravenous parenteral conscious sedation in at least 30 cases that are documented showing provision of anesthesia services in keeping with the standard of care as determined by one or more of the SBDE's anesthesia consultants.

(E)

The records of all dentists permitted to administer parenteral conscious sedation will be annotated showing whether portability status is granted.

(F)

Any applicant whose request for portability is not granted on the basis of the application will be provided an opportunity for hearing pursuant to Texas Government Code, Section 2001 et.seq.

(5)

A dentist holding a permit to administer [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia on the effective date of this rule who desires to provide anesthesia on a portable basis must file with the State Board of Dental Examiners a request for a portability designation.

(A)

The records of all dentists permitted to administer [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia will be annotated showing whether portability status is granted.

(B)

Any applicant whose request for portability status is not granted on the basis of the application will be provided an opportunity for hearing pursuant to Texas Government Code, Section 2001 et.seq.

(6)

The Board may elect to issue a temporary sedation/anesthesia permit which will expire on a date certain. A full sedation/anesthesia permit may be issued after the dentist has complied with requests of the Board which may include, but shall not be limited to, review of the dentist's anesthetic technique, facility inspection and/or review of patient records to ascertain that the minimum standard of care is being met. If a full permit is not issued, the temporary permit will expire on the stated date, and no further action by the State Board of Dental Examiners will be required, and no hearing will be conducted.

(g)

Educational/Professional requirements for sedation/anesthesia permits:

(1)

Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Inhalation Conscious Sedation

(A)

To administer nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation, the dentist must satisfy one of the following criteria:

(i)

must have completed training consistent with that described in Part I or Part III of the American Dental Association (ADA) Guidelines for Teaching the Comprehensive Control of Pain and Anxiety in Dentistry; or

(ii)

must have completed an ADA accredited post-doctoral training program which affords comprehensive and appropriate training necessary to administer and manage nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation.

(B)

The following shall apply to the administration of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation in the dental office:

(i)

provision of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation by another duly qualified dentist or physician anesthesiologist requires the operating dentist and his/her clinical staff to maintain current expertise in Basic Life Support (BLS);

(ii)

when a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is permitted to function under the supervision of a dentist, in the dental office, provision of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation by a CRNA shall require the operating dentist to have completed training in nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation, and to be permitted for its utilization.

(2)

Parenteral Conscious Sedation

(A)

To administer parenteral conscious sedation, the dentist must satisfy one of the following criteria:

(i)

completion of a comprehensive training program for the [ in ] parenteral conscious sedation technique requested that satisfies the requirement described in Part III of the American Dental Association (ADA) Guidelines for Teaching the Comprehensive Control of Pain and Anxiety in Dentistry at the time training was commenced; or

(ii)

completion of an ADA accredited post-doctoral training program which affords comprehensive and appropriate training necessary to administer and manage the parenteral conscious sedation technique requested .

(B)

The following shall apply to the administration of parenteral conscious sedation in the dental office:

(i)

provision of parenteral conscious sedation by another duly qualified dentist or physician anesthesiologist requires the operating dentist and his/her clinical staff to maintain current expertise in Basic Life Support (BLS);

(ii)

when a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is permitted to function under the supervision of a dentist, in the dental office, provision of parenteral conscious sedation by a CRNA shall require the operating dentist to have completed training in parenteral conscious sedation, and to be permitted for its utilization;

(iii)

a dentist administering parenteral conscious sedation must document current, successful completion every three years of an advanced emergency procedures course approved by the State Board of Dental Examiners or an Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) course, or a Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) or age appropriate equivalent course.

(3)

[ Parenteral ] Deep Sedation/General Anesthesia

(A)

To administer [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia, the dentist must satisfy one of the following criteria:

(i)

completion of an advanced training program in anesthesia and related subjects beyond the undergraduate dental curriculum that satisfies the requirements described in Part II of the American Dental Association (ADA) Guidelines for Teaching the Comprehensive Control of Pain and Anxiety in Dentistry at the time training was commenced; or,

(ii)

completion of an ADA accredited post-doctoral training program which affords comprehensive and appropriate training necessary to administer and manage [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia.

(B)

The following shall apply to the administration of [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia in the dental office:

(i)

provision of [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia by another duly qualified dentist or physician anesthesiologist requires the operating dentist and his/her clinical staff to maintain current expertise in Basic Life Support (BLS);

(ii)

when a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is permitted to function under the supervision of a dentist, in the dental office, provision of [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia by a CRNA shall require the operating dentist to have completed training in [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia, and to be permitted for its utilization;

(iii)

a dentist administering [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia must document current, successful completion every three years of an advanced emergency procedures course approved by the State Board of Dental Examiners or an Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) course, or a Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) or age appropriate equivalent course.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 13, 2001.

TRD-200102125

Jeffry Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


22 TAC §108.34

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §108.34, Permit Requirements and Clinical Provisions. The modifier "...parenteral..." has been deleted before "deep sedation and general anesthesia" in Subsections (c)(1)(A) and (B), (c)(2)(B), (D) and (F), (c)(3), (A), (B)(ii), (C)(i), (iii), and (v), (D)(iv) and (v), (F)(i) and (ii), (G)(i). Deletion of the word "parenteral" when it is such a modifier in §§108.32 - 108.34 has the effect of requiring that all licensees who administer deep sedation and/or general anesthesia must have a permit to do so, whether the sedative agents are administered parenterally or by any other route. Without this change, dentists, by use of orally administered sedative agents, could deeply sedate patients without having a permit

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five-year period the amended rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local or state government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of amending the rule is that Practitioners who wish to utilize any technique to achieve deep sedation or general anesthesia will have a permit from the Board.

There will be no fiscal implications for small or large businesses. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small businesses when compared to large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512-463-6400). To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners on or before May 27, 2001.

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et.seq; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§108.34.Permit Requirements and Clinical Provisions.

(a)

Nitrous Oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation. To induce and maintain this type of conscious sedation on patients having dental/oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures in the State of Texas, the following requirements must be met:

(1)

Professional requirements.

(A)

Each dentist wishing to utilize this technique must be permitted by the State Board of Dental Examiners (SBDE) to deliver nitrous oxide/oxygen conscious sedation after having met the Education Requirements as detailed in rule 108.33 (g)(1) of this title (relating to Sedation/Anesthesia Permit).

(B)

Nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation shall be induced and maintained by a dentist licensed by the State of Texas and practicing in Texas, a physician anesthesiologist licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners, or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) licensed in Texas.

(2)

Standard of care requirements. Each dentist must maintain the minimum standard of care as detailed in rule 108.32 of this title (relating to Minimum Standard of Care), and shall in addition:

(A)

adhere to the clinical requirements as detailed in paragraph (3) of this subsection;

(B)

maintain under continuous direct supervision auxiliary personnel who shall be capable of reasonably assisting in procedures, problems, and emergencies incident to the use of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation.

(C)

maintain current certification in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation for the assistant staff by having them pass a course sponsored by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross; and

(D)

not allow a nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation procedure to be performed in his/her office by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) unless the dentist holds a permit issued by the State Board of Dental Examiners for the procedure being performed. This provision and similar provisions in subsequent sections of this rule addresses dentists and is not intended to address the scope of practice of persons licensed by any other agency.

(3)

Clinical Requirements. Each dentist must meet the following clinical requirements for utilization of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation:

(A)

Patient Evaluation. Patients subjected to nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation must be suitably evaluated prior to the start of any sedative procedure. In healthy or medically stable individuals (ASA I, II), this may be simply a review of their current medical history and medication use. However, with individuals who may not be medically stable or who have a significant health disability (ASA III, IV) consultation with their primary care physician or consulting medical specialist regarding potential procedure risk should be considered.

(B)

Pre-Procedure preparation, informed consent:

(i)

the patient and/or guardian must be advised of the procedure associated with the delivery of the nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation.

(ii)

the inhalation equipment must be evaluated for proper operation and delivery of inhalation agents prior to use on each patient;

(iii)

determination of adequate oxygen supply must be completed prior to use with each patient;

(iv)

baseline vital signs should be obtained at the discretion of the operator depending on the medical status of the patient and the nature of the procedure to be performed.

(C)

Personnel and Equipment Requirements:

(i)

in addition to the dentist, at least one member of the assistant staff should be present during the administration of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation in non-emergency situations;

(ii)

the inhalation equipment must have a fail-safe system that is appropriately checked and calibrated;

(iii)

if nitrous oxide and oxygen delivery equipment capable of delivering less than 25% oxygen is used, an in-line oxygen analyzer must be utilized;

(iv)

the equipment must have an appropriate nitrous oxide/oxygen scavenging system.

(v)

regardless of the sedation/anesthesia technique, the ability of the provider and/or the facility to deliver positive pressure oxygen must be maintained.

(D)

Monitoring and Documentation:

(i)

maintain personal supervision of the patient during induction of the nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation procedure and during maintenance of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation for such a period of time necessary to establish pharmacologic and physiologic vital sign stability. The dentist may delegate under direct supervision, as defined in Rule 108.31 of this title (relating to Definitions), the monitoring of the nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation procedure to a dental auxiliary who has been certified to monitor the administration of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation by the State Board of Dental Examiners. Certification is obtained by successful completion of a written examination offered by the State Board of Dental Examiners on said subject.

(ii)

individuals present during administration should be documented;

(iii)

maximum concentration administered must be documented.

(E)

Recovery and Discharge:

(i)

recovery from nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation, when used alone, should be relatively quick, requiring only that the patient remain in an operatory chair as needed;

(ii)

patients who have unusual reactions to nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation should be assisted and monitored either in an operatory chair or recovery room until stable for discharge;

(iii)

the dentist must determine that the patient is appropriately responsive prior to discharge.

(F)

Emergency Management. The dentist, personnel and facility must be prepared to treat emergencies that may arise from the administration of nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation.

(b)

Parenteral conscious sedation intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), submucosal (SM), intranasal (IN). To induce and maintain this type of conscious sedation on patients having dental/oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures in the State of Texas, the following requirements must be met:

(1)

Professional Requirements:

(A)

each dentist wishing to utilize these techniques must be permitted by the State Board of Dental Examiners (SBDE) to deliver parenteral conscious sedation after having met the educational requirements as detailed in Rule 108.33 (g)(2) of this title (relating to Sedation/Anesthesia Permit).

(B)

parenteral conscious sedation shall be induced and maintained by a dentist licensed by the State of Texas and practicing in Texas, a physician anesthesiologist licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners, or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) licensed in Texas.

(2)

Standard of Care Requirements. Each dentist must maintain the minimum standard of care as detailed in Rule 108.32 of this title (relating to the Minimum Standard of Care) and shall in addition

(A)

adhere to the clinical requirements as detailed in paragraph (3) of this subsection;

(B)

maintain a written informed parenteral conscious sedation consent for each dental patient on whom each procedure is performed; such consent shall specify that the risks related to the procedure include cardiac arrest, brain injury and death;

(C)

maintain a time oriented, written anesthetic record which shall record dosages of anesthetic agents utilized and which shall include physiologic vital sign monitoring during the course of the procedure;

(D)

maintain under continuous personal supervision auxiliary personnel who shall be capable of reasonably assisting in procedures, problems, and emergencies incident to the use of parenteral conscious sedation;

(E)

maintain current certification in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation for the assistant staff by having them pass a course sponsored by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.

(F)

not allow a parenteral conscious sedation procedure to be performed in his/her office by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) unless the dentist holds a permit issued by the State Board of Dental Examiners for the procedure being performed.

(3)

Clinical Requirements. Each dentist must meet the following clinical requirements for utilization of parenteral conscious sedation:

(A)

Patient Evaluation. Patients subjected to parenteral conscious sedation must be suitably evaluated prior to the start of any sedative procedure. In healthy or medically stable individuals (ASA I, II) this may be simply a review of their current medical history and medication use. However, with individuals who may not be medically stable or who have a significant health disability (ASA III, IV) consultation with their primary care physicians or consulting medical specialists regarding potential procedure risk or special monitoring requirements should be considered.

(B)

Pre-procedure preparation, informed consent:

(i)

the patient and/or guardian must be advised of the procedure associated with the delivery of any sedative agents and the appropriate informed consent must be obtained;

(ii)

if inhalation equipment is used in conjunction with parenteral conscious sedation, the equipment must be evaluated for proper operation and delivery of inhalation agents prior to use on each patient;

(iii)

determination of adequate oxygen supply must be completed prior to use with each patient;

(iv)

baseline vital signs should be obtained;

(v)

pre-treatment physical evaluation must be performed as deemed appropriate;

(vi)

specific dietary restrictions must be delineated based on the technique used and patient's physical status;

(vii)

appropriate verbal or written instructions regarding the procedure must be given to the patient and/or guardian;

(viii)

an intravenous line must be established and secured throughout a procedure utilizing an intravenous conscious sedation technique and should be maintained with other parenteral conscious sedation techniques when the patient's physical or medical condition warrants, except as provided in subparagraph (F) of this paragraph.

(C)

Personnel Requirements and Equipment:

(i)

during the administration of parenteral conscious sedation the dentist and at least one member of the assistant staff who is currently competent in Basic Life Support (BLS) must be present;

(ii)

any inhalation equipment utilized in conjunction with parenteral conscious sedation must have a fail safe system that is appropriately checked and calibrated;

(iii)

if nitrous oxide and oxygen delivery equipment capable of delivering less than 25% oxygen is used, an in-line oxygen analyzer must be utilized;

(iv)

the inhalation equipment must have an appropriate nitrous oxide/oxygen scavenging system;

(v)

regardless of the sedation/anesthesia technique, the ability of the provider and/or the facility to deliver positive pressure oxygen must be maintained.

(D)

Monitoring and Documentation. Maintain personal supervision of the patient during the induction of parenteral conscious sedation and during maintenance of parenteral conscious sedation for a period of time necessary to establish pharmacologic and physiologic vital sign stability. When a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) provides the parenteral conscious sedation care, he/she shall be under the direct supervision of the dentist in the dental office. Delegation of personal supervision may occur if a second dentist or physician anesthesiologist is delivering the anesthesia care.

(i)

Oxygenation. Color of mucosa, skin or blood shall be continually evaluated. Oxygen saturation shall be evaluated continuously by pulse oximetry except as provided in subparagraph (F) of this paragraph.

(ii)

Ventilation. Must perform observation of chest excursions and/or auscultation of breath sounds.

(iii)

Circulation.

(I)

Shall take and record blood pressure and pulse continually at least every 10 minutes;

(II)

Shall perform continuous EKG monitoring of all patients with electrocardioscopy, except as provided in subparagraph (F) of this paragraph.

(iv)

Documentation. A written time-oriented anesthetic record must be maintained. Individuals present during the administration of parenteral conscious sedation shall be documented.

(E)

Recovery and Discharge.

(i)

positive pressure oxygen and suction equipment must be immediately available in the recovery area and/or operatory;

(ii)

continual monitoring of vital signs when the sedation/anesthesia is no longer being administered; i.e., the patient must have continuous supervision until oxygenation, ventilation and circulation are stable and the patient is appropriately responsive for discharge from the facility;

(iii)

the dentist must determine and provide for documentation that oxygenation, ventilation, circulation, activity, skin color and level of consciousness are appropriate and stable prior to discharge;

(iv)

must provide explanation and documentation of postoperative instructions to patient and/or a responsible adult at time of discharge;

(v)

the dentist must determine that the patient has met discharge criteria prior to leaving the office.

(F)

Special situations include multiple/combination techniques and single dosage techniques (IN, IM and SC) and types of special patients. In selected circumstances, parenteral conscious sedation may be utilized without establishing an indwelling intravenous line or continuous EKG monitoring with electrocardioscopy or pulse oximetry. These circumstances include sedation for brief procedures; young children managed entirely by non-intravenous techniques; or the establishment of intravenous access, EKG monitoring, or pulse oximetry after sedation has been induced due to poor patient cooperation. Vital sign monitoring and IV access during special situations should in as far as possible adhere to generally accepted standards of care and/or the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Sedation Guidelines published in 1999 for Level 1 and Level 2 conscious sedation, as those levels are defined in the guidelines. When these situations occur, the dentist responsible for administering parenteral conscious sedation shall document the reasons preventing the recommended preoperative or intraoperative management.

(G)

Emergency Management.

(i)

the sedation/anesthesia permit holder/provider is responsible for the anesthetic management, adequacy of the facility and treatment of emergencies associated with the administration of parenteral conscious sedation, including immediate access to pharmacologic antagonists and equipment for establishing a patent airway and providing positive pressure ventilation with oxygen;

(ii)

advanced airway equipment, resuscitation medications must be available.

(iii)

a defibrillator should be immediately available when ASA I and ASA II status patients are consciously sedated and, a defibrillator must be immediately available when ASA III and ASA IV status patients are consciously sedated.

(c)

Deep [ Parenteral deep ] sedation and/or general anesthesia. To induce and maintain [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia on patients having dental/oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures in the State of Texas, the following requirements must be met:

(1)

Professional Requirements:

(A)

Each dentist wishing to utilize either of these techniques must be permitted by the State Board of Dental Examiners (SBDE) to deliver [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia after having met the education requirements as detailed in rule 108.33(g)(3) of this title (relating to Sedation/Anesthesia Permit).

(B)

Deep [ Parenteral deep ] sedation/general anesthesia shall be induced and maintained by a dentist licensed by the State of Texas and practicing in Texas, a physician anesthesiologist licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners, or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) licensed in Texas.

(2)

Standard of care requirements. Each dentist must maintain the minimum standard of care as detailed in rule 108.32 of this title (relating to Minimum Standard of Care) and shall in addition:

(A)

adhere to the clinical requirements as detailed in paragraph (3) of this subsection;

(B)

maintain a written [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia consent for each dental patient on whom each procedure is performed, such consent shall specify that the risks related to the procedure include cardiac arrest, brain injury and death:

(C)

maintain a time oriented, written anesthetic record which shall record dosages of anesthetic agents utilized and shall include physiologic vital sign monitoring during the course of the procedure;

(D)

maintain under continuous direct supervision a minimum of two auxiliary personnel who shall be capable of reasonably assisting in procedures, problems, and emergencies incident to the use of [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia;

(E)

maintain current certification in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation for the assistant staff by having them pass a course sponsored by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross;

(F)

not allow a [ parenteral ]deep sedation and/or general anesthesia procedure to be performed in his/her office by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) unless the dentist holds a permit issued by the State Board of Dental Examiners for the procedure being performed.

(3)

Clinical Requirements. Each dentist must meet the following clinical requirements for utilization of [ parenteral ]deep sedation and/or general anesthesia:

(A)

Patient Evaluation. Patients subjected to [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia must be suitably evaluated prior to the start of any sedative/anesthetic procedure. In healthy or medically stable individuals (ASA I, II) this may be simply a review of their current medical history and medication use. However, with individuals who may not be medically stable or who have a significant health disability (ASA III, IV), consultation with their primary care physician or consulting medical specialist regarding potential procedure risk or special monitoring should be considered.

(B)

Pre-Procedure preparation, informed consent:

(i)

the patient and/or guardian must be advised of the procedure associated with the delivery of any sedative agents and the appropriate informed consent should be obtained;

(ii)

if inhalation equipment is used in conjunction with [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia, the equipment must be evaluated for proper operation and delivery of inhalation agents prior to use on each patient;

(iii)

determination of adequate oxygen supply must be completed prior to use with each patient;

(iv)

baseline vital signs should be obtained;

(v)

pre-treatment physical evaluation should be performed as deemed appropriate;

(vi)

specific dietary restrictions must be delineated based on technique used and patient's physical status;

(vii)

appropriate verbal or written instructions regarding the procedure must be given to the patient and/or guardian;

(viii)

an intravenous line which is secured throughout the procedure must be established, except as provided in subparagraph (F) of this paragraph.

(C)

Personnel and Equipment Requirements:

(i)

a provider permitted to administer [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia shall be designated to be in charge of the administration of anesthesia care;

(ii)

two additional individuals who are currently certified in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation or its equivalent, one of whom is trained in patient monitoring shall be present for the delivery of anesthesia care;

(iii)

when the same individual administering the [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia is performing the dental/oral and maxillofacial procedure, one of the additional two individuals present for the delivery of anesthesia care must monitor the patient and record required information on the anesthesia record;

(iv)

equipment suitable to provide advanced airway management and advanced life support must be on premises and available for use.

(v)

any inhalation equipment utilized in conjunction with [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia must have a fail safe system that is appropriately checked and calibrated.

(vi)

if nitrous oxide/oxygen delivery equipment capable of delivering less than 25% oxygen is used, an in-line oxygen analyzer must be utilized.

(vii)

the inhalation equipment must have an appropriate nitrous oxide/oxygen scavenging system.

(viii)

regardless of the sedation/anesthesia technique, the ability of the provider and/or the facility to deliver positive pressure oxygen must be maintained.

(D)

Monitoring and Documentation. Maintain personal supervision of the patient during the induction and maintenance of [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia and during maintenance of [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia for a period of time necessary to establish pharmacologic and physiologic vital sign stability. When a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) provides the anesthesia care, he/she shall be under the direct supervision of the dentist in the dental office. Delegation of personal supervision may occur if a second dentist or physician anesthesiologist is delivering the anesthesia care.

(i)

Oxygenation. Color of mucosa, skin or blood shall be continually evaluated. Oxygenation saturation shall be evaluated continuously by pulse oximetry;

(ii)

Ventilation. Intubated patient - must auscultate breath sounds and monitor of end-tidal CO2. Non-intubated patient - auscultation of breath sounds, observation of chest excursions and/or monitoring of end-tidal CO2;

(iii)

Circulation. Continuous EKG monitoring of all patients throughout the procedure with electrocardioscopy shall occur. Shall record blood pressure and pulse continually at least every five minutes;

(iv)

Temperature. A device capable of measuring body temperature should be readily available, if needed, during the administration of [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia. When agents implicated in precipitating malignant hyperthermia are utilized, continual monitoring of body temperature must be performed;

(v)

Documentation. A written time-oriented anesthetic record must be maintained. Individuals present during the administration of [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia shall be documented.

(E)

Recovery and Discharge

(i)

oxygen and suction equipment must be immediately available in the recovery area and/or operatory;

(ii)

continual monitoring of vital signs when the anesthetic is no longer being administered, i.e., the patient must have continuous supervision until oxygenation, ventilation, circulation and temperature, as indicated, are stable and the patient is appropriately responsive for discharge from the facility;

(iii)

the dentist must determine and document that oxygenation, ventilation, circulation activity, skin color, level of consciousness and temperature, as indicated, are stable prior to discharge;

(iv)

must provide explanation and documentation of post-operative instructions to patient and/or a responsible adult at the time of discharge.

(v)

the dentist must determine and provide for documentation that the patient has met discharge criteria prior to leaving the office.

(F)

Special situations include multiple/combination techniques single dosage techniques (IN, IM and SC) and types of special patients:

(i)

In selected circumstances, [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia may be utilized without first establishing an indwelling intravenous line or continuous EKG monitoring with electracardioscopy or pulse oximetry. These circumstances include [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia for very brief procedures, or brief periods of time, which, for example, may occur in some pediatric patients; or the establishment of intravenous access after [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia has been induced due to poor patient cooperation. Vital sign monitoring and IV access during special situations should in as far as possible adhere to generally accepted standards of care. When these situations occur, the dentist responsible for administering [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia shall document the reasons preventing the recommended preoperative or intraoperative management.

(ii)

Due to the fact that some dental patients undergoing [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia are mentally and/or physically challenged, it is not always possible to suitably evaluate these patients prior to administering care. When these situations occur, the dentist responsible for administering the [ parenteral ] deep sedation/general anesthesia shall document the reasons preventing the recommended preoperative management.

(G)

Emergency Management:

(i)

the anesthesia permit holder/provider is responsible for the anesthetic management, adequacy of the facility and treatment of emergencies associated with the administration of [ parenteral ] deep sedation and/or general anesthesia including immediate access to pharmacologic antagonists and equipment for establishing a patent airway and providing positive pressure ventilation with oxygen;

(ii)

advanced airway equipment, resuscitation medications and a defibrillator must also be immediately available;

(iii)

appropriate pharmacologic agents must be immediately available if known triggering agents of malignant hyperthermia are part of the anesthesia plan.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 13, 2001.

TRD-200102126

Jeffry Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


Subchapter D. MOBILE DENTAL FACILITIES

22 TAC §108.43

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §108.43, Operating Requirements for Permitted Mobile Dental Facilities or Portable Dental Units. The language of Subsection (b)(3) is modified to provide that a practitioner who provides dental services to less than three persons at a private residence is not required to prepare an annual report of those services. All other requirements of the chapter apply to such a practitioner, but the Board agrees that the detailed reporting requirements for services provided in private homes is unduly burdensome.

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five-year period the amended rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local or state government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of amending the rule is that application of the rule will not have an unduly harsh impact upon those who make house calls to patients.

The SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small businesses when compared to large businesses, since the effect will be the reduction of costs for those who fit the exemption.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512-463-6400). To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners on or before May 27, 2001.

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et.seq; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§108.43.Operating Requirements for Permitted Mobile Dental Facilities or Portable Dental Units.

(a)

A permit holder is required to operate a permitted Mobile Dental Facility or Portable Dental Unit in compliance with all state statutes and regulations. Further, all permit holders shall;

(1)

in writing, notify the SBDE of a change in any address required in Rule 108.42(b)(1) of this title (relating to Obtaining a Permit) within 60 days of the change;

(2)

prominently display all dental and dental hygienist licenses and current registration certificates, Mobile Dental Facilities or Portable Dental Unit permits, or copies of permits if one permit is issued for multiple facilities or units, a consumer information sign as described in Rule 108.5 of this title (relating to Consumer Information) in compliance with the Dental Practice Act and/or the Rules and Regulations of the SBDE, provided, however, that a licensee may display a duplicate registration certification obtained from the SBDE;

(3)

maintain, in full compliance with all record-keeping requirements contained in these rules, all dental records and official records at the official address of record for the facility or unit.

(b)

All permit holders except, governmental and higher education entities, shall:

(1)

in writing, notify the SBDE of a change in personnel listed as required by Rule 108.42(b)(2) of this title (relating to Obtaining a Permit) within 30 days of any such change;

(2)

before beginning a session at any location, arrange for;

(A)

access to a properly functioning sterilization system;

(B)

ready access to an adequate supply of potable water; and

(C)

ready access to toilet facilities.

(3)

on the 10th work day of September of each year, file with the SBDE a written report for the preceding year ending August 31, detailing the location, including a street address, the dates of each session, and the number of patients served and the types of dental procedures and quantity of each service provided; except that such written reports may exclude information concerning dental services provided to less than three individuals at a private residence;

(4)

insure that all written or printed materials available from or issued by the Mobile Dental Facility or Portable Dental Unit contain the official address of record for the facility or unit;

(5)

operate a Mobile Dental Facility or Portable Dental Unit only when all requirements described in Rule 108.42 of this title (related to Obtaining a Permit) are being met.

(c)

A permit to operate a Mobile Dental Facility or Portable Dental Unit expires one (1) year after the issuance date, or on the date when the permit holder is no longer associated with the Mobile Dental Facility or Portable Dental Unit, which ever is first.

(d)

A permit holder may renew a permit by submitting an annual application which shall include a list of all locations served during the past year, and payment of required fee.

(e)

Upon cessation of operations by the Mobile Dental Facility or Portable Dental Unit, the permit holder shall notify the SBDE of the final disposition of patient records and charts.

(f)

A permit to operate a Mobile Dental Facility or Portable Dental Unit is not transferable.

(g)

The SBDE may cancel a permit if upon investigation and after opportunity for a hearing, a determination is made of non-compliance with the Dental Practice Act or the SBDE Rules and Regulations.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 13, 2001.

TRD-200102127

Jeffry Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


Chapter 115. EXTENSION OF DUTIES OF AUXILIARY PERSONNEL--DENTAL HYGIENE

22 TAC §115.1

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §115.1, Definitions. Paragraph (5) has been added to provide a definition of a supervising dentist, in the context of the practice of dental hygiene. Paragraph (6) has been added to define the term "General Supervision", and clarifies that a dental hygienist can be generally supervised by a supervising dentist even when the dentist is not on the premises. It should be noted that this definition has no effect on the provisions of §262.151 of the Occupations Code that a dental hygienist may see a patient when the dentist is not on the premises if the patient has been examined within the 12 months previous to the appointment with the hygienist.

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five-year period the amended rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local or state government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of amending the rule is that the respective relationships between a dentist, a dental hygienist and a dental patient are clarified.

There will be no fiscal implications for small or large businesses. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small businesses when compared to large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 463-6400. To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners on or before May 27, 2001.

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et.seq; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§115.1.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this section, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1)

Dental Hygienist--One who possesses the qualifications prescribed by the laws of this state and who possesses a valid certificate and current registration receipt issued by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners to so practice.

(2)

Irreversible--an act that is "irreversible" is not capable of being reversed or corrected. This term includes, but is not limited to, the result of intra-oral use of any laser for any purpose including all or part of a whitening process.

(3)

Root Planing--A definitive treatment procedure designed to remove cementum or surface dentin that is rough, impregnated with calculus, or contaminated with toxins or microorganisms.

(4)

Scaling--Instrumentation of the crown and root surfaces of the teeth to remove plaque and calculus from these surfaces.

(5)

Supervising Dentist--The term "supervising dentist" as used in these rules relating to the practice of dental hygiene, shall mean a dentist licensed by the State Board of Dental Examiners, who is responsible for monitoring the services to be performed by the dental hygienist. The supervising dentist must have and maintain a doctor patient relationship with any patient to whom any dental hygienist under his or her supervision provides services.

(6)

General Supervision--In this section, "general supervision" means supervision of a dental hygienist by a supervising dentist, where the dentist may or may not be present when the dental hygienist performs the dental hygiene procedures.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 13, 2001.

TRD-200102128

Jeffry Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


22 TAC §115.2

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §115.2, Permitted Duties. Language of the lead paragraph has been changed to reflect the codification of the former Dental Practice Act into the Texas Occupations Code. Language in the paragraph has also been modified to reflect that a dental hygienist must work in the office of and under the supervision of a licensed dentist or in an alternate setting. This language complies with the statutory language of Senate Bill 964, Section 20, enacted by the 76th Legislature, effective September 1, 1999. Paragraph 1 has been divided into two subparagraphs, which provide that a dental hygienist who graduated from an accredited and approved dental or dental hygiene school after December 31, 1980, may place pit and fissure sealants without first having obtained a certificate from the Board. Dental hygienists who graduated from such a school before December 31, 1980, must apply to the Board for certification to place pit and fissure sealants. Every dental hygienist who graduated from a Texas dental or dental hygiene school that is accredited and approved after December 31, 1980 has completed the necessary course work to obtain a certificate to place pit and fissure sealants from the Board. The Board agrees that is unnecessary to require such graduates to apply for that certificate.

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five-year period the amended rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local or state government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of amending the rule is that this rule will be in compliance with statutory language and will recognize the realities of modern dental practice and education.

There will be no fiscal implications for small or large businesses. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small businesses when compared to large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 463-6400. To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners on or before May 27,2001.

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et.seq; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§115.2.Permitted Duties.

In addition to those duties identified in the Texas Occupations Code, Section 262.152, [ Article 4551e-1(b)(2), ] a dental hygienist may perform the following services and procedures in the dental office of his/her supervising dentist or dentists who are legally engaged in the practice of dentistry in this state or under the supervision of a supervising dentist in an alternate setting. [ dentist-employer under his/her general supervision, direction and responsibility, to wit: ]

(1)

apply pit and fissure sealants [ only after successful completion of a course of instruction in a dental or dental hygiene school or college accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association and approved by the State Board of Dental Examiners and after receipt of certification by the State Board of Dental Examiners. Certification to apply pit and fissure sealants in Texas may be obtained by submitting a written request accompanied by required proof of course completion. ]

(A)

dental hygienists who graduated from a dental or dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association after December 31, 1980 may do so without obtaining a certificate from the SBDE;

(B)

dental hygienists who graduated from a dental or dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association before December 31, 1980, must obtain certification from the SBDE to apply sealants. Certification to apply pit and fissure sealants in Texas may be obtained by submitting a written request to the SBDE accompanied by proof of course completion.

(2)

monitor patients receiving nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation conscious sedation only after obtaining certification issued by the State Board of Dental Examiners and only under the direct supervision of a Texas licensed dentist. Certification may be obtained by successful completion of the certification examination offered by the State Board of Dental Examiners.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 13, 2001.

TRD-200102129

Jeffry Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


Part 10. TEXAS FUNERAL SERVICE COMMISSION

Chapter 201. LICENSING AND ENFORCEMENT -- PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

22 TAC §201.7

The Texas Funeral Service Commission proposes an amendment to §201.7, concerning Allegations and Investigations.

The Texas Funeral Service Commission proposes an amendment to delete the language must be in writing and add the language should. It is also to change the language from and to and/or. The language /or is being added. This is a grammatical change. The language is being changed/written to make it easier for the consumer to respond

O.C. "Chet" Robbins, Executive Director, Texas Funeral Service Commission, has determined that for the first five-year period this section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. Robbins, Executive Director, Texas Funeral Service Commission, has determined that for each year of the first five years the public benefit will be to insure that the language is changed/written to make it easier for the consumer to respond. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the proposed section.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to O.C. "Chet" Robbins, Executive Director, Texas Funeral Service Commission, 510 South Congress Avenue, Suite 206, Austin, Texas 78704, (512) 936-2474 or 1-888-667-4881. Comments may also be submitted electronically to crob@tfsc.state.tx.us or faxed to (512) 479-5064.

The amendment is proposed under Section 651.152 of the Texas Occupation Code, as amended by Section 18 of House Bill 3516, 76th Legislature which authorizes the Commission to issue such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effect the provisions of this Section.

No other statutes, articles, or codes are affected by the proposed amendment.

§201.7Allegations and Investigations.

(a)

Any person may file allegations with the commission concerning any licensee's violation of Texas Civil Statutes, Article 4582b, or the rules promulgated by the commission. The allegations should [ must be in writing and ]include the following information:

(1) - (3)

(No change.)

(4)

the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any persons who witnessed the acts; and /or

(5)

(No change.)

(b)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 16, 2001.

TRD-200102133

O.C. "Chet" Robbins

Executive Director

Texas Funeral Services Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 936-2474


Part 17. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS

Chapter 361. ADMINISTRATION

Subchapter C. ELECTION OF BOARD OFFICERS

22 TAC §361.29

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners proposes amendments to §361.29 which currently sets forth the meetings at which the election of Board officers shall occur and the length of terms that each officer shall serve. Section 361.29 also contains language which requires the Board to meet in July and September of each year.

The amendments to §361.29 are proposed in conjunction with additional planned rule amendments which will allow the Board the ability to reduce the number of its annual Board meetings from six to four, and eliminate the requirement in this rule that the Board meet in September of each year.

Robert L. Maxwell, Administrator of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect the benefit to local government as a result of the rule amendment as proposed, will be that local government officials may attend all regularly scheduled meetings of the Board by attending only four meetings annually instead of the current six meetings.

Mr. Maxwell has determined that each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit will be the same as that for local government. Additionally, the public will benefit economically, by the reduced amount of funds expended by the public and the Board as a result of reduced travel expenses. As a result of the rule amendment, there will be no economic cost to the persons that will be required to comply with the rule.

Comments on the proposed rule change may be submitted within 30 days of publication of this proposed rule amendment in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Administrator, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The amendments to §361.29 are proposed under and affect Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated Article 6243-101("Act"), §5(a) (Vernon Supp. 2001), and the rule it amends. Section 5(a) of the Act authorizes, empowers and directs the Board to prescribe, amend and enforce all rules and regulations necessary to carry out the Act.

No other statute, article, or code is affected by this proposed rule change.

§361.29.Election of Board Officers.

Beginning with the July 1997 Board meeting, the Board shall formally elect a Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary. Elections will be held every two years. The elected Board officers will take office on the first day of [ beginning with the ] September [ Board meeting ] following the elections held at the July Board meeting. Each elected Board officer shall serve a two-year term. If an office becomes vacant for any reason, a special election will be held at the next regularly scheduled board meeting to fill the office for the unexpired term.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 11, 2001.

TRD-200102070

Robert L. Maxwell

Administrator

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 458-2145


Chapter 365. LICENSING

22 TAC §365.14

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners proposes amendments to §365.14 which currently sets forth how the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) programs function, including specific months that the Board shall meet to approve CPE materials, providers and instructors.

The amendments to §365.14 are proposed in conjunction with additional planned rule amendments which will allow the Board the ability to reduce the number of its annual Board meetings from six to four, and eliminate the requirement in this rule that the Board meet in March of each year. The proposed amendments to §365.14 change the deadlines for CPE materials and applications to be submitted to the Board and approved by the Board. Prospective providers and instructors will continue to have ample time to comply with submittal and approval time lines. The specific subsections that are proposed to be amended for this purpose are subsection (a)(18)(B) and subsection (b)(12). Additionally, the Board proposes to amend subsection (b)(12)(B) and subsection (c) to allow the Board to approve Course Instructors at any regularly scheduled Board meeting. Currently, the Board may only approve Course Instructors annually.

Robert L. Maxwell, Administrator of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect the benefit to local government as a result of the rule amendment as proposed, will be that local government officials may attend all regularly scheduled meetings of the Board by attending only four meetings annually instead of the current six meetings.

Mr. Maxwell has determined that each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit will be the same as that for local government. Additionally, the public will benefit economically, by the reduced amount of funds expended by the public and the Board as a result of reduced travel expenses. There will also be a benefit to the public and the licensees by ensuring that Course Instructors may be approved at any regularly scheduled Board meeting to ensure that an adequate number of qualified Course Instructors is maintained. As a result of the rule amendment, there will be no economic cost to the persons that will be required to comply with the rule.

Comments on the proposed rule change may be submitted within 30 days of publication of this proposed rule amendment in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Administrator, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The amendments to §365.14 are proposed under and affect Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated Article 6243-101("Act"), §5(a) (Vernon Supp. 2001), and the rule it amends. Section 5(a) of the Act authorizes, empowers and directs the Board to prescribe, amend and enforce all rules and regulations necessary to carry out the Act.

No other statute, article, or code is affected by this proposed rule change.

§365.14.Continuing Professional Education Programs.

(a)

Course Materials--Beginning in preparation for the 2000-2001 Continuing Professional Education year (begins on July 1, 2000), the Board will annually approve Course Materials to be used for the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) required for renewal of Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber and Plumbing Inspector Licenses. The Course Materials are the printed materials that are the basis for a substantial portion of a CPE course and which are provided to the Licensees. Board approval of Course Materials will be subject to all of the terms and conditions of this Section. The following minimum criteria will be used by the Board in considering approval of Course Materials:

(1)-(17)

(No change.)

(18)

All providers of Course Materials must meet the following time schedule each year for approval of Course Materials to be used for the 2001-2002 and following CPE years:

(A)

(No change.)

(B)

At least 20 copies each of the revised and completed version of the Course Materials must be submitted to the Board's office no later than March 15 [ February 15 ] for Board approval at its April [ March ] Board meeting, unless an extension is requested at or before the April [ March ] Board meeting and granted by the Board.

(C)

(No change.)

(19)

(No change.)

(b)

Course Providers--The Board will annually approve only individuals, businesses or associations as Course Providers. Course Providers will offer classroom and correspondence instruction in the Course Materials used for the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) required for renewal of all licenses issued under the Act. Board approval of Course Providers will be subject to all of the terms and conditions of this Section. The following minimum criteria will be used by the Board in considering approval of Course Providers:

(1)-(11)

(No change.)

(12)

Each Course Provider shall use only Course Instructors that have been approved by the Board. Each Course Provider shall annually submit to the Board's office a list of Course Instructors it employs and the instructors' credentials for approval.

[(A)

Lists of Course Instructors to be approved for the 2000-2001 CPE year must be submitted no later than May 15, 2000 for approval by the Board at its May, 2000 meeting, unless an extension is requested at or before the May Board meeting and granted by the Board.]

[ (B) ]

Initial Lists of Course Instructors, to be approved for the 2002-2003 [ 2001-2002 ] and later CPE years, must be submitted each year no later than March 15 [ February 15 ] for approval by the Board at its April [ March ] Board meeting . The Board may approve additional Course Instructors at any regularly scheduled Board meeting. [ , unless an extension is requested at or before the March Board meeting and granted by the Board ].

(13)-(21)

(No change.)

(c)

Course Instructors--The Board will [ annually ] approve Course Instructors to provide the classroom instruction in the Course Materials used for the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) required for renewal of Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber and Plumbing Inspector Licenses. Board approval of Course Instructors will be subject to all of the terms and conditions of this Section. An individual who wishes to be approved by the Board as a Course Instructor must apply to the Board using an application form approved by the Board. The following minimum criteria will be used by the Board in considering approval of Course Instructors:

(1)-(6)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 11, 2001.

TRD-200102072

Robert L. Maxwell

Administrator

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 27, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 458-2145