Radiologic technologists.

Under existing law, a certified radiologic technologist, with sufficient education and training, may, under the general supervision of a licensed physician and surgeon, perform venipuncture in an upper extremity to administer contrast materials. Violation of these provisions is a misdemeanor. Existing law authorizes a person who is currently certified as meeting the standards of competence in nuclear medicine technology and who meets specified requirements to perform a computerized tomography scan only on a dual-mode machine, as specified. This bill would provide that in administering contrast materials, a radiologic technologist may, to ensure the security and integrity of the placement of a needle or of an intravenous cannula, use a saline-based solution that is in accordance with the facility protocol and is approved by a licensed physician and surgeon. This bill would also apply these provisions to a person who is currently certified as meeting the standards of competence in nuclear medicine technology and who meets specified requirements and to radiologic technologists who meet the bill's training and education requirements prior to January 1, 2013. By expanding the scope of a crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.