D.C. Code § 3-1206.51: Scope of practice.

(a)

An individual shall be licensed by the Board of Medicine before practicing as a trauma technologist in the District of Columbia.

(b)

An individual licensed to practice as a trauma technologist shall have the authority to:

(1)

Identify respiratory emergencies and perform critical interventions with oxygen therapy equipment, including bag valve masks;

(2)

Identify circulatory emergencies and perform critical interventions, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation;

(3)

Identify, assess, and treat, as required, various eye injuries, soft tissue injuries, ligament and tendon injuries, musculoskeletal injuries, environmental emergencies, and exposure and reactions to poisons;

(4)

Provide topical and infiltration application of a local anesthetic,

(5)

Apply tourniquets, casts, immobilizers, and surgical dressings;

(6)

Perform phlebotomy and insert intravenous catheters; and

(7)

Suture lacerations and provide wound care.

(c)

A trauma technologist shall not:

(1)

Perform any surgical procedure independently;

(2)

Have prescriptive authority; or

(3)

Write any progress notes or orders on hospitalized patients.

(d)

Telecommunication by a physician licensed to practice in the District of Columbia may suffice as a means for directing delegated acts for a trauma technologist who is under the indirect supervision of that physician.