Nurse Practitioner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Louisiana

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 Louisiana.

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Louisiana, with its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, is an incredible place to live and explore. La Louisiane, named after Louis XIV of France, became a French colony in 1682. It later passed to Spain in 1763. In 1803, Louisiana became part of the iconic Louisiana Purchase, and in 1812, it proudly joined the United States as the 18th state. Coined as the Pelican State, Louisiana has something for everyone, with beautiful coastal marshes, warm weather, french-influenced culture, outstanding cuisine, and soul-stirring music. This state promises an unforgettable journey.

• Take a trip to New Orleans, Louisiana to experience Mardi Gras! Head to the famous French Quart to enjoy a parade, indulge in King cake and gumbo, and dance to lively jazz tunes in the joyful streets of New Orleans. 
• Explore the Creole Nature trail and hike Louisiana’s unique landscapes, including marshes, beaches, and wildlife refuges. Take part in bird watching, hiking, and soak in the beauty of the wildlife. 
• Hop on the historic Steamboat Natchez cruise along the Mississippi River! Enjoy live music, delicious cruise, and breathtaking views on the iconic steamboat.

• New Orleans, Louisiana to Houston, Texas: Approximately 350 miles; around 5 to 6 hours by car.
• Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Jackson, Mississippi: Roughly 125 miles; about 2 to 2.5 hours by car. 
• Shreveport, Louisiana to Dallas, Texas: Around 190 miles; approximately 3 to 3.5 hours by car. 
• Lafayette, Louisiana to Mobile, Alabama: About 150 miles; approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
• Lake Charles, Louisiana to Little Rock, Arkansas: Approximately 230 miles; around 3.5 to 4 hours by car. These times and distances can vary depending on traffic, road conditions, and specific starting and ending points within each city or state.

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

In the state of Louisiana, the scope of practice for NPs is subject to certain limitations imposed by state law. This means that the ability of NPs to provide healthcare services to patients is not as unrestricted as it might be in other states. The law stipulates that a collaborative agreement must be established between physicians and NPs. This agreement is a formal arrangement that outlines the working relationship between the two parties.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Louisiana?

The state of Louisiana does not allow nurse practitioners to sign patient’s death certificates. Louisiana 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 Louisiana Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Louisiana, 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 Louisiana?

NPs can prescribe schedule II controlled substances in the state of Louisiana, but it’s limited.

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Louisiana?

In the state of Louisiana, 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 Louisiana?

In the state of Louisiana, 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 Louisiana?

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

No, nurse practitioners are not authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Louisiana. 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 Louisiana?

Nurse practitioners are not authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Louisiana. DNR orders can only be signed by a physician.

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

In the state of Louisiana, NPs must complete a  minimum of 30 board-approved contact hours of continuing education. This mandate ensures that nurse practitioners (NPs) persistently upgrade their proficiency and skills, stay updated with the latest progress in their field, and offer superior patient care.