Nurse Practitioner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Kentucky

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 Kentucky.

Click here for open nurse practitioner jobs in Kentucky!

Kentucky became the 15th state in the Union on June 1, 1792. Kentucky boasts diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, fertile plains, and the famous bluegrass pastures. The Appalachian Mountains grace its eastern border, while the Ohio River flows along the northern boundary. This state has a rich culture, including its world renowned bourbon whiskey, bluegrass music, and world renowned horse racing. Historically, tobacco farming dominated Kentucky’s economy. Today, it thrives in various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

In summary, Kentucky blends history, culture, and natural wonders, making it a captivating state to explore! 

• Baseball fans, you are in for a treat! Kentucky is home to the Louisville Slugger Baseball Bat museum and factory. The museum shows the history behind the legendary sports equipment company, and gives guests the opportunity to see how baseball bats are made. 
• Witness the magic of bourbon production at Maker’s Mark Distillery. Guests can watch firsthand how sour mash fermented in cypress vats transforms into world renowned Kentucky bourbon. Don’t worry, they offer tastings as well! 
• There are plenty of outdoor adventures to take in Kentucky. Take a trip to Mammoth Cave National Park, home of the world’s longest cave system, or head to Corbin, Kentucky to Cumberland Falls State Park, where guests can enjoy hiking trails, scenic views, and take in the beautiful waterfall
• Check out Churchill Downs, the world renowned horse racing complex where the Kentucky Derby is held. Take a tour of the grounds, and if you are lucky, even attend a race. Be sure to grab a Mint Julep!

• Louisville, Kentucky to Indianapolis, Indiana: Approximately 115 miles; around 2 to 2.5 hours by car. 
• Lexington, Kentucky to Cincinnati, Ohio: Roughly 80 miles; about 1.5 to 2 hours by car. 
• Bowling Green, Kentucky to Nashville, Tennessee: Around 65 miles; approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by car. 
• Owensboro, Kentucky to St. Louis, Missouri: About 165 miles; approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car. 
• Covington, Kentucky to Columbus, Ohio: Approximately 100 miles; around 1.5 to 2 hours by car.

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

In the state of Kentucky, the accessibility of nurse practitioner (NP) care is limited due to specific state laws. These laws mandate that both physicians and NPs must enter into a collaborative agreement to oversee one or more aspects of NP practice. This requirement is a legal obligation and is enforced to ensure the standardization and quality of care provided by NPs.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Kentucky?

In the state of Kentucky, nurse practitioners (NPs) are authorized to sign death certificates. As NPs play a crucial role in patient care, the task of officially declaring a patient’s death and signing the death certificate is considered within their jurisdiction in Kentucky. 

Does Kentucky Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Kentucky, 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 Kentucky?

An NP’s ability to prescribe certain drugs in Kentucky depends on their relationship with the collaborating physician. With a KASPER account, NPs may prescribe controlled drugs in 30-day amounts.

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Kentucky?

In the state of Kentucky, 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 Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Kentucky?

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

In Kentucky, only physicians can sign the MOST form, a legally binding document that outlines a patient’s end-of-life care preferences. This restriction on NPs can lead to delays in completing the form, barriers to access for patients without primary care physicians or living in rural areas, and disparities in end-of-life care. Allowing NPs to sign the MOLST form would improve access to end-of-life care, reduce disparities, and ensure patients’ wishes are respected.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Kentucky?

Nurse practitioners are not authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Kentucky. 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 Kentucky?

In Kentucky, NPs are required to fulfill 14 CE hours to renew their license. This requirement is designed to guarantee that NPs continually enhance their expertise and abilities, keep up with the most recent advancements in their profession, and deliver top-tier patient care.