Nurse Practitioner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Hawaii

Our recruiters and staffing specialists do not expect you, the provider, to know ins-and-outs of every state in the country. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled information from TripAdvisor, state government pages, and tourist information sources to give you a glimpse into life in Hawaii.

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Hawaii, the 50th state of the United States, has a rich history dating back to the arrival of the first known residents over 1,500 years ago. It was once a kingdom ruled by royal leaders until it became a U.S. territory in 1898 and was later named a state in 1959. The islands are home to the only royal building on U.S. soil, the Iolani Palace, and are known for their unique cultural traditions such as surfing and hula dancing. The state’s name may have been derived from the legendary figure Hawai’i Loa, and it is famously nicknamed “The Aloha State,” with “aloha” meaning both hello and goodbye in Hawaiian. 

Hawaii’s unique history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences make it an enticing destination for work and leisure. Whether it’s the allure of the beaches, the thrill of outdoor adventures, or the rich cultural heritage, Hawaii has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Explore the stunning beaches with uniquely-colored sands, from white to green, red, pink, and black. Visit the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island to witness the impressive Kilauea volcano, which has been erupting for over 30 years, expanding Hawaii by over 40 acres annually.

• Engage in a variety of outdoor activities including hiking through dense tropical rainforests, experiencing stunning waterfalls, snorkeling near coral reefs, and even making a snowball atop Mauna Kea Volcano on Hawaii Island.

• Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by learning about the history of the islands, visiting historic sites such as the Iolani Palace, and experiencing traditional Hawaiian dance through the hula.
• Witness the diverse wildlife of Hawaii, from native birds like the nene and pueo, to marine life including monk seals, hawksbill turtles, and humpback whales.

Hawaii is an isolated state in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so it doesn’t have direct road connections to other cities or states. However, if you’re considering travel by air: 

• Honolulu, Hawaii to Los Angeles, California: Approximately 2,500 miles; around 5 to 6 hours by flight.
• Honolulu, Hawaii to San Francisco, California: Roughly 2,400 miles; about 5 to 6 hours by flight. 
• Honolulu, Hawaii to Seattle, Washington: Around 2,700 miles; approximately 5.5 to 6.5 hours by flight.

What is the Scope of Practice for Nurse Practitioners in Hawaii?

Nurse practitioners have full practice authority in the state of Hawaii. This legal provision empowers NPs to perform a comprehensive array of healthcare services that are critical to patient care. Hawaii law authorizes NPs to evaluate patients, diagnose, and prescribe medications and therapeutic measures. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Hawaii?

Yes, NPs are authorized to sign death certificates in Hawaii. This responsibility is part of their expanded scope of practice, allowing them to perform tasks traditionally reserved for physicians. This policy not only recognizes the advanced training of NPs, but also helps streamline healthcare processes. 

Does Hawaii Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

Yes, Hawaii state statute and/or administrative code recognizes NPs as primary care providers. This recognition empowers NPs to deliver a broad range of healthcare services that are traditionally associated with primary care physicians. It is a testament to the evolving landscape of healthcare, where NPs are playing an increasingly pivotal role in meeting the primary care needs of the community.

Can Nurse Practitioners Independently Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Hawaii?

NPs have the authority to independently prescribe schedule II drugs in the state of Hawaii. They are also permitted to dispense, administer, and procure schedule II drugs to patients without supervision of a physician. Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological and/or physical dependence. 

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, state law does not specify Hawaii’s requirements for medical staff composition. This absence of specific regulations allows these healthcare institutions the flexibility to determine their staffing needs based on a variety of factors. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Order Physical Therapy in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, NPs have the authority to make referrals for physical therapy for their patients. This is a significant aspect of their role, as it allows them to ensure that their patients receive the necessary care and treatment. However, it’s also important to note that in Hawaii, patients have the option to seek physical therapy services directly, without the need for a referral. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Hawaii?

Yes! Nurse practitioners are authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Hawaii. NPs can assess a patient’s physical condition and determine whether their disability qualifies them for a parking placard. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST Forms in Hawaii? 

Yes, nurse practitioners are authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Hawaii. These forms are designed to communicate a patient’s wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment. They are typically used in situations where a patient has a serious illness or is near the end of life. The forms provide specific medical orders that are to be followed by healthcare providers, ensuring that the patient’s wishes are honored. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders are no longer its own form but a clause within Hawaii’s Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Form. 

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Nurse Practitioners in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, NPs are required to fulfill 30 CE hours.