Nurse Practitioner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in South Dakota

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 South Dakota.

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South Dakota’s history is a tapestry woven with Native American heritage, westward expansion, and the shaping of the American frontier. For centuries, tribes like the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota Sioux thrived on the Great Plains. The arrival of European explorers and settlers led to conflict and dramatic changes, with events like the Gold Rush and the Battle of Little Bighorn shaping the region. The iconic Mount Rushmore was carved to symbolize the nation’s growth, while today, South Dakota honors both its Native American roots and the rugged spirit of the frontier.

South Dakota’s history resonates within its vast prairies, sacred landmarks, and the enduring spirit of its people. From ancient civilizations to modern-day challenges, its past is a complex and ongoing narrative, a testament to the forces that shape both a state and a nation.

• Unforgettable Monuments: Visit the iconic Mount Rushmore, marvel at the ongoing construction of the Crazy Horse Memorial, and witness the stark beauty of Badlands National Park. 
• Experience Native American Culture:  Discover the vibrant heritage of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota Sioux at cultural centers, powwows, or by exploring sites like the Wounded Knee Memorial. 
• Outdoor Exploration: Hike through the Black Hills National Forest, go kayaking on the Missouri River, or search for wildlife like bison and pronghorn in Custer State Park. 
• Step Back in Time: Explore the Wild West legacy in historic Deadwood, attend the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, or delve into the state’s prehistoric past at the Mammoth Site.

• North Dakota: South Dakota shares its entire northern border with North Dakota. The distance from central South Dakota to the North Dakota border is negligible. 
• Wyoming: South Dakota’s western border connects with Wyoming. The distance from central South Dakota to the Wyoming border is approximately 130 miles. 
• Nebraska: South Dakota shares its southern border with Nebraska. The distance from central  South Dakota to the Nebraska border is about 150 miles.

What is the Scope of Practice for Nurse Practitioners in South Dakota?

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

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in South Dakota?

The state of South Dakota allows nurse practitioners to sign patient’s death certificates. This practice underscores the vital role that nurse practitioners play in the healthcare system of South Dakota, extending beyond patient care to tasks such as the signing of death certificates.

Can Nurse Practitioners Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in South Dakota?

Nurse practitioners may prescribe a limited amount of controlled substances under certain situations in the state of South Dakota. These situations are typically defined by the state’s regulations and may include specific patient conditions, supervision requirements, or other healthcare settings. This nuanced approach to prescription authority aims to balance the need for accessible patient care with the imperative of controlled substance regulation.

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in South Dakota?

In the state of South Dakota, the composition of medical staff within healthcare facilities is not arbitrarily decided. Instead, it is determined by a set of rules and regulations known as facility bylaws. These bylaws are essentially a legal document that governs the operation of the facility and outlines the responsibilities and privileges of the medical staff.

Can Nurse Practitioners Order Physical Therapy in South Dakota?

In the state of South Dakota, nurse practitioners are granted full authority to order physical therapy for their patients. This is a significant aspect of their role in the healthcare system, allowing them to provide comprehensive care. A NP can assess a patient’s need for such a treatment, and then order it accordingly.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in South Dakota?

No. Nurse practitioners are not authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of South Dakota.

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

Yes, nurse practitioners are authorized to sign MOST forms in the state of South Dakota. 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 South Dakota?

Nurse practitioners are authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of South Dakota. DNR orders are typically signed after a detailed discussion with the patient or the patient’s healthcare proxy or legal guardian. This conversation involves a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s medical condition, prognosis, and personal wishes regarding end-of-life care.

What are the Continuing Medical Education Requirements for Nurse Practitioners in South Dakota?

Nurse practitioners in South Dakota do not have to complete CE requirements to renew their active license.