In an effort to enhance patient safety and care, Washington State is implementing new regulations for dentists administering moderate sedation to pediatric patients. Effective February 28, 2025, dentists who provide moderate sedation—whether through enteral or parenteral methods— must obtain a Pediatric Sedation Endorsement.
Requirements for the Pediatric Sedation Endorsement:
To qualify for this endorsement, dentists must:
- Hold a Current Moderate Sedation Permit: Dentists must possess a valid permit for moderate sedation with either enteral or parenteral agents.
- Comply with Washington’s Permitting and Renewal Requirements: Dentists must be compliant with guidelines for administering moderate sedation with enteral agents, moderate sedation with parenteral agents, or general anesthesia including deep sedation.
- Complete Additional Education and Training: Dentists must provide evidence of 37 hours in minimal and moderate sedation CE and an additional 14 hours of focused on pediatric sedation is required. This training should encompass:
- Pediatric-specific anatomical and physiological considerations
- Behavioral management techniques during sedation
- Appropriate drug selection, dosages, and routes of administration
- Use of immobilization devices
- Comprehensive recordkeeping
- Integration of nitrous oxide with other sedative medications
- Prevention, recognition, and management of potential complications
- At least four hours of hands-on instruction, simulations, or live supervised case management involving pediatric patients
- Maintain Current Certifications: Dentists must have up-to-date certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
The Washington State Department of Health has officially made the application for the Pediatric Sedation Endorsement available. This endorsement is a significant regulatory step aimed at enhancing the safety and quality of pediatric sedation in dental practices across the state. Notably, there are no application or renewal fees associated with this endorsement.
Dentists are encouraged to submit their applications promptly to ensure compliance by the February 28, 2025, deadline. This regulatory update underscores Washington State’s commitment to ensuring dental practitioners are well-equipped to safely manage sedation in pediatric patients, thereby improving the overall quality of dental care for children.
HealthFirst has partnered with DOCS Education, which offers a variety of sedation trainings, including pediatric sedation courses. Visit Courses | DOCS Education to explore available courses.
For the full text of the Washington Administrative Code regarding Pediatric Sedation Endorsement Requirements, visit app.leg.wa.gov.
