Nurse Practitioner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Washington

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 Washington.

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Washington’s history is a journey from ancient times to modern innovation. For thousands of years, diverse Native American tribes thrived in the Pacific Northwest. European explorers arrived in the 1700s, followed by Lewis and Clark’s famous expedition. Fur trading and logging fueled early settlements, while conflict over land was a sad reality. After statehood in 1889, the gold rush brought prospectors, and Seattle emerged as a major port city.  In the 20th century, Boeing took flight, dams harnessed the Columbia River, and tech giants like Microsoft transformed the economy. Washington today blends its rich heritage with an innovative spirit.

From lush rainforests to the Cascade Mountains, Washington’s landscapes mirror its history – rugged, beautiful, and marked by constant change. Its story speaks of the enduring spirit of Native peoples, the ambitions of pioneers, and the relentless drive for innovation. Washington stands as a testament to the transformative power of the American West, a place where the past echoes in the present as it boldly shapes its future.

• Seattle Vibes: Experience the buzz of Seattle – visit Pike Place Market, take in skyline views from the Space Needle, and explore its vibrant music and coffee culture.
• Olympic National Park Adventures: Hike through ancient rainforests, explore tidepools on the rugged coast, and camp beneath towering peaks in stunning Olympic National Park.
• Island Escapes: Ferry to the San Juan Islands for whale watching, kayaking, and charming island towns, or explore the artsy communities on Whidbey Island.
• Wine Country & Eastern Landscapes: Tour vineyards and enjoy the tasting rooms of Walla Walla, or marvel at the dramatic scenery of the Columbia River Gorge and the volcanic peak of Mount Rainier.

• Oregon: Washington shares its entire southern border with Oregon. The distance from central Washington to the Oregon border is negligible.
• Idaho: Washington’s eastern border connects with Idaho. The distance from central Washington to the Idaho border is around 250 miles. 
• British Columbia (Canada): Washington shares its northern border with the Canadian province of British Columbia. The distance from central Washington to the British Columbia border is approximately 220 miles.

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

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

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Washington?

The state of Washington allows nurse practitioners to sign patient’s death certificates. 

Does Washington Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Washington, through its statutes and administrative codes, acknowledges the role of nurse practitioners as primary care providers. This recognition is a testament to the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery, where the traditional roles are being expanded to meet the increasing demand for primary care services.

Can Nurse Practitioners Independently Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Washington?

NPs may prescribe certain drugs after a specified number of hours of experience and pharmacotherapeutics education in the state of Washington.

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Washington?

NPs may join medical staff in the state of Washington.

Can Nurse Practitioners Order Physical Therapy in Washington?

In the state of Washington, 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 Washington?

Yes! Nurse practitioners are authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Washington. 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 Washington? 

Yes, nurse practitioners are authorized to sign POLST forms in the state of Washington. 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 Washington?

Nurse practitioners are not authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Washington. DNR orders are typically signed by a physician 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 Education Requirements for Nurse Practitioners in Washington?

In Washington, NPs are required to fulfill eight CE hours to renew their license. This requirement is designed to guarantee that nurse practitioners (NPs) continually enhance their expertise and abilities, keep up with the most recent advancements in their profession, and deliver top-tier patient care.