Nurse Practitioner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Alaska

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 Alaska. 

Click here for open NP jobs in Alaska!

Alaska, also known as “The Great Land,” has a rich history that dates back to the Russian settlement in 1784. In 1867, the United States purchased the territory from Russia for $7.2 million, a deal that was initially mocked but later celebrated after the discovery of gold in 1898. Alaska officially became a U.S. territory on October 18, 1867, and later gained statehood in 1959. The state has been home to significant events such as the Klondike Gold Rush and the only World War II battle fought on American soil.

Alaska is the largest state in the United States by area, spanning over 663,000 square miles, making it larger than the next three biggest states combined. During the summer solstice, some parts of Alaska experience nearly 24 hours of daylight, a phenomenon known as the “midnight sun.” Alaska is the perfect place for any adventure seeker to embark on their journey!

• Hike the majestic Denali, the highest peak in North America, and explore the 17 of North America’s tallest mountains in the state.
• Explore the outdoors! Alaska is home to some of the most beautiful views in the country,and filled with outdoor adventures such as dog mushing, kayaking, river rafting, and wildlife viewing. 
• Immerse yourself in Alaska’s rich Native culture, witness the Alaska Native traditions, and visit historical sites to appreciate the state’s diverse heritage.
• Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Aurora Borealis, a natural light display that paints the Alaskan night sky with vibrant colors.
• Embark on a thrilling glacier trek and experience the power and beauty of Alaska’s glaciers up close.

• Alaska is located approximately 50 miles from Russia and has coastlines on the Arctic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and Bering Sea.
• The state is the northernmost, easternmost, and westernmost point in the U.S., and its largest city, Anchorage, is home to the world’s largest and busiest seaplane base, Lake Hood.
• Notably, despite its vast size, Alaska has the lowest population density in the U.S., providing plenty of area to explore without large crowds.

Given its unique history, diverse cultural experiences, and breathtaking natural landscapes, working in Alaska offers an unparalleled opportunity for exploration, adventure, and personal growth.

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

In Alaska, nurse practitioners (NPs) do not need a collaborative agreement plan with a physician. They typically have full practice authority in most cases.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Alaska?

In the state of Alaska, NPs have reduced practice authority for signing death certificates. This means that they can sign a death certificate but they must have a physician authorize them to do so. The physician must certify the certificate within 24 hours.

Does Alaska Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

Alaska formally recognizes nurse practitioners as primary care providers through its comprehensive statutes and administrative codes. The legal framework establishes educational requirements, licensing procedures, and the scope of practice for NPs, emphasizing collaboration with physicians for comprehensive patient care.

Can Nurse Practitioners Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Alaska?

Nurse practitioners in Alaska can prescribe schedule II drugs. NPs do not require the involvement of a physician to have prescriptive authority, but they must complete 15 hours of advanced pharmacology and clinical management of drug therapy.

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Alaska?

In the state of Alaska, nurse practitioners are typically acknowledged as healthcare professionals who can join the medical staff. This recognition highlights their significant contributions to delivering excellent patient care. NPs who qualify for medical staff membership gain various benefits, including collaboration with other healthcare professionals, involvement in decision-making, and opportunities for leadership positions.

Can Nurse Practitioners Order Physical Therapy in Alaska?

In Alaska, nurse practitioners are legally authorized to order physical therapy for their patients. This authority aligns with the increasing role of NPs as healthcare providers, recognizing their education, training, and clinical judgment. NPs can provide comprehensive care to patients, including ordering PT, which can help improve their mobility, function, and overall quality of life. The ability of NPs to order PT enhances patient access to rehabilitative care, promotes collaborative healthcare, and improves the efficiency and quality of healthcare delivery in Alaska.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Alaska?

Nurse practitioners (NPs) in Alaska are legally authorized to certify disability for parking placards. The ability of NPs to certify disability for parking placards is an important service to individuals with disabilities, as it provides them with the necessary parking accommodations.

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

In Alaska, nurse practitioners can sign POLST forms, medical orders that guide healthcare providers in making life-sustaining treatment decisions for seriously ill or life-limiting patients. These forms ensure that patient wishes are honored, even if they cannot communicate them. NPs consider patients’ medical diagnosis, prognosis, values, preferences, and goals of care when signing POLST forms, which become legally binding and must be followed by healthcare providers. POLST forms provide clear instructions on desired or undesired treatments, such as CPR, mechanical ventilation, tube feeding, and preferred place of care. By signing POLST forms, NPs help patients exercise their right to self-determination and ensure their end-of-life care aligns with their wishes, promoting patient autonomy, dignity, and respect.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Alaska?

In Alaska, nurse practitioners (NPs) have the legal authority to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, which direct that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) not be initiated or continued in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. NPs must obtain informed consent from the patient before signing a DNR order. DNR orders can ensure that patients’ wishes are respected at the end of their lives. 

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

Alaska law requires 15 hours of CE from nurse practitioners. All nurses with DEA registration have to complete two CE hours in pain management, and opioid use and addiction.