Nurse Practitioner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Alabama

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 Alabama.

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Alabama, known as “The Heart of Dixie,” boasts a history as vibrant as its culture. 1819, Alabama officially joined the United States as the 22nd state, and since then, it’s been a melting pot of traditions and influences. The state played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, with iconic events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Selma to Montgomery marches making history and inspiring change across the nation.

But it’s not all serious business in Alabama – the state is also famous for its natural beauty! From the highest peak at Cheaha Mountain to its diverse wildlife and rich natural resources, Alabama offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. So, whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or someone who appreciates cultural diversity, Alabama has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Embark on a journey through space at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, home to the world’s largest spaceflight museum.
• Immerse yourself in nature at Talladega National Forest, where you can hike, camp, and take in the breathtaking views from Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama.
• Take a visit to the Birmingham Zoo, one of Alabama’s most popular attractions! With approximately 550 animals of 180 species from 6 continents, this 122-acre site offers a perfect blend of entertainment, education, and conservation initiatives. 
• Are you a fan of college football? Take a trip down to the University of Alabama for a football game and enjoy the vibrant town of Tuskaloosa. The gameday experience is unforgettable, with tailgates, great food, and entertainment at every corner.

Alabama’s prime location makes it a hub for exploration and adventure:

• Atlanta, Georgia: Approximately 150 miles northeast; around 2.5 hours by car. 
• Nashville, Tennessee: Roughly 190 miles northwest; about 3 hours by car. 
• New Orleans, Louisiana: Around 270 miles southwest; approximately 4.5 hours by car. 
• Birmingham, Alabama to Montgomery, Alabama: About 90 miles southeast; approximately 1.5 hours by car. 
• Mobile, Alabama to Pensacola, Florida: Approximately 60 miles east; around 1 hour by car. These times and distances can vary depending on traffic and specific starting and ending points within each city or state.

Alabama’s rich history, diverse attractions, and strategic location make it an enticing place to live and work, offering a blend of cultural, natural, and historical experiences.

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

In the state of Alabama, nurse practitioners (NPs) have reduced practice authority. 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.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Alabama?

Yes, NPs are authorized to sign death certificates in Alabama due to Alabama Code 34-21-93.1. This responsibility is a significant part of their role in healthcare, as it involves the official documentation of a patient’s death. The ability to sign death certificates not only underscores the trust and recognition of the competence of NPs in the healthcare system, but it also facilitates the timely and efficient processing of these vital records. 

Does Alabama Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Alabama, through its statutes and administrative codes, does not acknowledge the role of NPs as primary care providers. While recent changes have expended their scope of practice, they are not typically recognized.

Can Nurse Practitioners Independently Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Alabama?

In the state of Alabama, Certified Nurse Practitioners who wish to prescribe, administer, or authorize the administration of controlled substances classified under Schedule III, IV, or V, are required to secure a specific certification. This certification, known as the Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Certificate (QACSC), is not a one-time requirement and must be renewed on an annual basis.

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Alabama?

In Alabama, the composition of medical staff is not strictly limited to doctors of medicine or osteopathy. Other healthcare providers can also be included in these teams, provided that the governing authority gives its approval. This means that the decision to include other types of healthcare providers in the medical staff is contingent upon the permissions granted by the relevant regulatory bodies.

Can Nurse Practitioners Order Physical Therapy in Alabama?

In the state of Alabama, 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.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Alabama?

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

In the realm of healthcare regulations, it is important to note that Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are not specifically granted the authority to sign Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms. This means that, as per the existing rules and guidelines, the responsibility of signing these critical documents does not explicitly fall within the purview of NPs.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Alabama?

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

In Alabama, NPs are required to fulfill 24 CE hours. 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.