2025 California Code
Business and Professions Code - BPC
DIVISION 2 - HEALING ARTS
CHAPTER 4 - Dentistry
ARTICLE 2.75 - Use of Deep Sedation and General Anesthesia
Section 1646.
1646. As used in this article, the following definitions apply:
(a) “Deep sedation” means a drug-induced depression of consciousness during which patients cannot be easily aroused but respond purposefully following repeated or painful stimulation. The ability to independently maintain ventilatory function may be impaired. Patients may require assistance in maintaining a patent airway, and spontaneous ventilation may be inadequate. Cardiovascular function is usually maintained.
(b) “General anesthesia” means a drug-induced loss of consciousness during which patients are not arousable, even by painful stimulation. The ability to independently maintain ventilatory function is often impaired. Patients often require assistance in maintaining a patent airway, and positive pressure ventilation may be required because of depressed spontaneous ventilation or drug-induced depression of neuromuscular function. Cardiovascular function may be impaired.
(c) “Good standing” means the license or permit is active and unrestricted by disciplinary action taken pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, is not the subject of an unresolved complaint or review procedure, and is not the subject of any unresolved disciplinary proceeding.
(Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 12. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)
