Nurse Practitoner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in California

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 California.

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California’s history is a captivating tale of discovery, innovation, and cultural diversity. From the Gold Rush that lured adventurers worldwide to the birth of the entertainment industry in Hollywood, the state’s past is as colorful as its landscape. The Spanish missions, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and the Silicon Valley’s tech revolution all contribute to the tapestry of California’s history, making it a place of endless fascination.

California was admitted to the Union as the 31st state in 1850, marking a turning point in its history. The state’s rapid growth and economic significance contributed to its becoming a cultural and economic powerhouse. With its diverse geography and endless activities, there is something for everyone to love in California, making it an ideal place to live, work, and play! 

• California boasts an array of breathtaking national parks, including Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Sequoia & Kings Canyon. Visitors can marvel at majestic waterfalls, ancient trees, and stunning rock formations while enjoying activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
• Napa Valley and Sonoma County offer world-renowned wine tasting experiences amidst picturesque vineyards. Visitors can savor award-winning wines, indulge in gourmet cuisine, and enjoy the scenic countryside.
• From the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Disneyland in Southern California to the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island in San Francisco, the state is brimming with iconic landmarks that capture the essence of American culture and history.
• With a coastline stretching over 800 miles, California offers an abundance of beautiful beaches for sunbathing, surfing, and water sports. From the stunning beaches of San Diego to the rugged coastline of Big Sur, there’s a beach for every preference.

• Los Angeles, California to Las Vegas, Nevada: Approximately 270 miles northeast; around 4 to 4.5 hours by car.
• Los Angeles, California to San Francisco, California: Roughly 380 miles north; about 6 to 7 hours by car.
• Los Angeles, California to Phoenix, Arizona: Around 370 miles southeast; approximately 5.5 to 6 hours by car.
• San Francisco, California to Portland, Oregon: About 640 miles north; approximately 10 to 11 hours by car.
• San Francisco, California to Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada border: Approximately 200 miles east; around 3 to 4 hours by car. 

California’s vibrant history, diverse array of attractions, and coastal location make it an irresistible place to live and work, offering an unparalleled blend of cultural, natural, and historical experiences.

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

In the state of California, the accessibility to nurse practitioner (NP) care is influenced by the existing state legislation. The law stipulates that a collaborative agreement must be established between physicians and NPs for one or more aspects of NP practice. This collaborative agreement is a formal partnership that outlines the working relationship between the physician and the NP, including the roles and responsibilities of each party. Generally, NPs have restricted practice authority.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in California?

The state of California does not allow nurse practitioners to sign patient’s death certificates. California only permits licensed physicians to sign death certificates. The responsibility of signing death certificates is strictly reserved for licensed physicians. Despite the broad scope of practice for other healthcare professionals in the state, including PAs and NPs, they are not authorized to sign death certificates.

Does California Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of California, 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 California?

NPs are authorized to prescribe schedule II drugs in the state of California. Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological and/or physical dependence, therefore some states only allow physicians to prescribe them. 

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in California?

In the state of California, 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 California?

Nurse practitioners can make referrals for physical therapy depending on the specifications of their collaborative relationship. Some nurse practitioners may have full autonomy in their practice, while others might work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician. Therefore, the capacity of nurse practitioners to refer patients for physical therapy is largely dependent on these professional relationships and the regulatory framework within which they operate. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in California?

Yes!  In California, NPs have the legal authority to certify disability for parking placards. They are equipped to evaluate a patient’s physical state and make a determination on whether the nature of their disability entitles them to a parking placard.

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

Yes, nurse practitioners are authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of California. 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. 

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

In California, NPs are required to fulfill 30 CE hours every two years. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that NPs are consistently updating their knowledge and skills, staying abreast of the latest developments in their field, and providing the highest quality of care to their patients.