Nurse Practitioner Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Tennessee

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 Tennessee.

Click here for open nurse practitioner jobs in Tennessee!

Get ready for a wild ride through Tennessee’s history! It starts with ancient Native American civilizations, then along came brave frontiersmen like Davy Crockett. This musical state gave birth to blues on Beale Street in Memphis and country music twang in the Smoky Mountains.  Today, it’s known for hot chicken in Nashville, Elvis’s Graceland, and whiskey smooth as a country song.  Tennessee’s a place where the past echoes in the present, with a whole lot of soul mixed in.

From its frontier roots to modern-day music meccas, Tennessee’s history is a soundtrack of the American experience. It’s a place where hardship and resilience met with innovation and creativity, shaping a state with a rich legacy and a spirit that keeps on singing.  Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of legends or savoring a plate of Memphis BBQ, Tennessee’s story resonates with the heart and soul of the South.

• Musical Pilgrimage: Embark on a musical journey through Tennessee, starting in Memphis, the birthplace of blues, where you can walk down historic Beale Street, visit the iconic Graceland, and lose yourself in the soulful sounds of live music. From there, make your way to Nashville, the heart of country music, where you can dance the night away to the tunes of talented musicians in the vibrant honky-tonks and music venues.
• Smoky Mountain Adventures: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can embark on scenic hikes to cascading waterfalls, spot black bears in their natural habitat, and soak in the crisp mountain air. For a truly adventurous experience, try white-water rafting on the Pigeon River or zip-lining through the towering trees.
• Good Eats & Sips: Satisfy your taste buds with Tennessee’s culinary delights. Start your food tour in Nashville, where you can indulge in the famous hot chicken, a spicy and flavorful dish that is a must-try. Next, head to Memphis for some of the best BBQ in the country, where you can savor tender smoked ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. Wash it all down with a sip of Tennessee whiskey, as you explore the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, which features distilleries and tasting rooms throughout the state.
• Dollywood Delights: Dive into a world of kitschy fun at Dolly Parton’s Dollywood, a unique theme park and resort nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Experience thrilling rides, heartwarming shows, and authentic Appalachian crafts and traditions. Meet the friendly park characters, enjoy delicious Southern-style food, and embrace the spirit of the Smoky Mountains. 

• Kentucky: Tennessee shares its entire northern border with Kentucky. The distance from central Tennessee to the Kentucky border is negligible. 
• Missouri: A small portion of Tennessee’s northwestern corner borders Missouri. The distance from central Tennessee to the Missouri border is around 200 miles.
• Mississippi: Tennessee shares its southwestern border with Mississippi. The distance from central Tennessee to the Mississippi border is approximately 150 miles.  

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

In the state of Tennessee, the scope of practice for NPs restricted. 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. It delineates the roles and responsibilities of each party, and it is required for one or more elements of NP practice.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Tennessee?

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

The state of Tennessee, 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 Tennessee?

NPs may prescribe a limited amount of schedule II drugs with preauthorization in the state of Tennessee. This preauthorization process typically involves obtaining approval from a supervising physician or a regulatory body, ensuring that the prescription is necessary and appropriate for the patient’s condition. This measure is designed to maintain patient safety, control substance abuse, and ensure the responsible use of potent medications in patient treatment.

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Tennessee?

NPs can’t join medical staff in the state of Tennessee. The restriction is a subject of ongoing debate among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and patient advocacy groups. It highlights the complexities of healthcare regulations and the need for ongoing evaluation to ensure optimal patient care and utilization of healthcare resources.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Tennessee?

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

Yes, nurse practitioners are authorized to sign POST forms in the state of Tennessee. 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. But NPs must complete extensive prerequisites to sign POST forms.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Tennessee?

Nurse practitioners cannot sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Tennessee. DNR orders are typically signed 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 Tennessee?

In Tennessee, NPs are required to fulfill five 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.