Many aspiring registered nurses (RNs) may not know what a locum tenens nurse practitioner (NP) does. The locum tenens definition comes from Latin, meaning “one holding a place,” an excellent description for a temporary position. In nursing terms, the locum tenens definition refers to any nursing professional who substitutes for another, usually for a short period of time. Locum tenens NPs are highly skilled, having earned an advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing. They move seamlessly between facilities and provide efficient, high-quality care to patients.
A Day in the Life of a Locum Tenens NP
The daily routine of a locum tenens NP is like any NP, except that a locum tenens NP typically spends a few days becoming familiar with a new facility’s systems and rules. For example, upon arrival at a location, a locum tenens NP may take part in an orientation that could last from one day to a week. In many cases, especially if a locum tenens NP has worked at the facility before, the nurse may have no orientation before meeting with patients. After the settling-in period, locum tenens NPs play the same role as traditional NPs, meeting with patients, analyzing and diagnosing illness, developing treatment plans, ordering diagnostic tests, prescribing medication or therapy, and keeping detailed records.
The Path to Employment
The path to employment as a locum tenens NP in advanced care involves meeting certain education requirements, gaining work experience, and acquiring certifications. Completing these steps will allow the professional to move between facilities and departments. Many nurses may prefer locum tenens work for more pay, travel, or schedule flexibility.
Education Requirements
To be eligible for locum tenens NP work, professionals need to have a master’s in nursing. As noted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse practitioners must complete an accredited master’s program that includes both in-class and clinical components. The majority of nurse practitioner programs prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, although there are exceptions for some nurses with an associate degree, diploma in nursing, or equivalent education outside of nursing, such as a health science degree.
Certifications
In addition to fulfilling the educational requirements, aspiring NPs with an eye on locum tenens work need to obtain the standard nurse practitioner certifications and licenses. They must pass a national certification exam as well as a second exam specific to an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role. Both the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) administer tests to certify professionals as nurse practitioners. Certification is necessary to show proficiency in an advanced role and is often required for state licensure.
Work Experience
Locum tenens NPs are considered independent contractors. They can apply for work on behalf of themselves or through a locum tenens agency. Working as an established NP at a set location serves as the experience one needs to become a locum tenens NP. Unlike a stationary NP, locum tenens NPs gain invaluable work experience with each new location. Because no two locations are exactly the same, locum tenens NPs can continually develop skills. For example, they may learn new technological systems or setting-specific best practices with each work location. As a result, locum tenens NPs often become even more flexible, versatile, and experienced the longer they work, potentially increasing their value as health care professionals.
Beyond the Locum Tenens Definition
Locum tenens NPs do more than fill in for other nurses. They are flexible and can become skilled in the best practices, systems, and operational protocols at many facilities across states and even the country. The first step toward becoming a locum tenens NP is earning a master’s degree, usually an online Master of Science in Nursing, which helps students develop the skills to pursue a traveling position. To learn more about how an MSN can help prepare a locum tenens hopeful for success, contact Regis College today.
Recommended Readings:
5 Ways to Earn a Better Nurse Practitioner Salary
Nursing Abroad: Career Opportunities All Over the World
Why Nursing Values and Beliefs Are Important to Achieving Career Success
Sources:
American Association of Nurse Practitioners
American Nurses Credentialing Center
Regis College, Online Master of Science in Nursing
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics: Nurse Practitioners
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners