Degree of Supervision Needed by Nurses Who Perform Cosmetic Laser Treatments

A request was received for an opinion on the level of physician supervision needed when RNs and LPNs provide laser treatments.   The Board discussed the questions posed and referred individuals to:

• The Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure for its position statement on the role of the physician in supervision of laser-related activities. 
  
  
• The Dermatology Nurses’ Association position paper entitled The Nurse’s Role in Laser Procedures which advises that "…nurses will deliver laser light under the direct supervision of the physician who is on-site, utilizing established protocols that have been determined by the physician at the time of his/her consultation with the patient, or at each pre-treatment session when applicable."
  
  
• The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Policy for Use of Laser and Related Technology by the Non-Physician which states that "…a properly trained and licensed medical professional may carry out these specifically designed procedures only under direct, onsite physician supervision."