Are you thinking about a healthcare job change, maybe into registered nurse jobs? Transitioning to a new role or entering healthcare for the first time can feel overwhelming. However, with the right support and strategies, it’s entirely achievable and even exciting.

Changing careers can be daunting in any industry, but the healthcare sector presents unique opportunities and considerations. Whether you’re already in healthcare looking for RN jobs or transitioning from a different field entirely, it’s essential to know how to navigate the process. This blog will explore strategies for making that career leap, seeking support, and understanding the skills required to thrive in healthcare.

1. Assess Your Skills and Set Career Goals

The first step toward a successful shift into registered nurse jobs is evaluating your current skill set and understanding your career aspirations. Ask yourself why you want to make a change and what you hope to achieve in a new role. Healthcare is vast, so finding your niche is crucial.

• Identify transferable skills: If you already work in healthcare, what skills can you bring to your new role? For example, teamwork and communication are essential across all RN jobs.
• Set clear goals: Whether you want to pursue patient care, move into leadership, or seek RN jobs near you, having a clear objective will guide your decision-making.

2. Research Registered Nurse Jobs

Once you’ve identified your goals, it’s time to explore the available opportunities. The healthcare field is diverse, offering roles from direct patient care to administrative positions. Researching will help you find registered nurse jobs that align with your career goals and preferences.

• Look at current trends: Knowing what roles are in demand can guide your search. RN jobs are consistently sought after, especially in specialized fields like mental health or community health.
• Explore different environments: From hospitals to community health centers, there are various settings where registered nurse jobs are available. Consider your ideal work environment and what aligns with your lifestyle.

3. Pursue Necessary Certifications and Education

Healthcare roles, particularly RN jobs, often require specific qualifications. Before making a career change, ensure you have or are working toward the necessary certifications to qualify for these positions.

• Nursing certifications: To land registered nurse jobs, you’ll need certifications like an RN license. Depending on your specialty, additional certifications may be necessary.
• Further education: If you’re transitioning from a non-clinical role, you may need to pursue additional education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an associate degree.

4. Seek Career Support

A career change can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Support is crucial for navigating the healthcare landscape and finding the right RN jobs near you. Many institutions and agencies offer mentorship and career counseling, which can help guide your transition.

• Mentorship: Finding a mentor who has experience in registered nurse jobs can provide you with valuable insights, advice, and encouragement.
• Networking: Join healthcare networking groups and attend events. Networking is a great way to learn about job openings and get advice from professionals who are already succeeding in RN jobs.

5. Tailor Your Job Applications for Registered Nurse Jobs

Once you’ve completed your education, certifications, and networked with professionals, it’s time to start applying for RN jobs. Your application materials must be tailored to each position to stand out in a competitive healthcare job market.

• Highlight relevant skills: Make sure your resume showcases the skills that are directly applicable to registered nurse jobs. For instance, if you’ve worked in healthcare administration, emphasize your organizational and leadership skills.
• Showcase adaptability: Employers appreciate candidates who can adapt quickly. In your application, highlight instances where you’ve successfully transitioned between roles or taken on new challenges.

Navigating the process of transitioning into registered nurse jobs or seeking new RN jobs can feel overwhelming. However, with careful planning and the right support, you can achieve a successful career change. By assessing your skills, researching opportunities, gaining the necessary certifications, and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, you’ll be on the path to landing fulfilling RN jobs.

At EmpowerCare, we are dedicated to supporting healthcare professionals in their career transitions. Whether you’re searching for RN jobs near you or looking for something further afield like a travel role, we provide the guidance and staffing solutions to connect you with the right opportunities. Contact us today to explore how we can help you make a successful career change.

Are you looking to advance your healthcare career in 2024?

As the healthcare industry evolves, employers are seeking a new set of skills to meet the demands of modern care. Understanding these shifts can give you a competitive edge.

The healthcare landscape is changing rapidly, driven by new technologies, shifting patient care trends, and ongoing staffing shortages. If you’re thinking of starting a career in healthcare or advancing in your current role, it’s essential to understand the top skills that employers will prioritize in 2024.

In this blog, we’ll explore key healthcare career skills and highlight healthcare hiring trends that will help you stay ahead of the competition.

1. Adaptability and Flexibility

First, adaptability is one of the most critical skills in healthcare today. The healthcare environment is constantly shifting, whether through new technologies, evolving patient needs, or staffing challenges. Employers need workers who can adjust quickly and thrive in changing conditions.

• Why it matters: As telemedicine, AI, and remote monitoring continue to grow, adaptable employees will find it easier to embrace these changes and ensure smooth transitions in patient care.
• How to develop it: You can develop adaptability by taking on new roles, learning new skills, and staying current with industry trends. For example, try volunteering for projects outside your regular duties.

2. Digital Literacy and Tech Skills

Another crucial skill for 2024 is digital literacy. Technology is becoming a major part of healthcare, from electronic health records (EHRs) to telehealth and remote patient monitoring tools. Therefore, healthcare professionals must be comfortable using various digital platforms and tools.

• Why it matters: Efficient use of digital tools improves data accuracy, enhances communication, and streamlines patient care.
• How to develop it: Start by familiarizing yourself with EHRs or other digital health platforms in your current role. Additionally, take online courses that focus on healthcare technology to build your knowledge.

3. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Strong communication is, without a doubt, one of the most vital healthcare career skills. Whether you’re explaining complex medical procedures to a patient or collaborating with colleagues, effective communication can improve patient outcomes and reduce errors.

• Why it matters: Good communication fosters trust with patients and supports a collaborative work environment. Both are essential for high-quality care.
• How to develop it: Practice active listening and empathy. Also, work on simplifying medical jargon when speaking with patients. This ensures they fully understand their care.

4. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Healthcare professionals constantly face challenging situations that require quick thinking. Problem-solving and critical thinking are, therefore, essential skills that employers will be looking for in 2024.

• Why it matters: Being able to think on your feet leads to better patient care. Quick, effective decisions can also improve patient safety.
• How to develop it: Take part in problem-solving exercises, simulations, or mentorship programs. These experiences can help sharpen your decision-making skills in high-pressure situations.

5. Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

In addition to technical skills, emotional intelligence (EQ) is becoming increasingly important. EQ allows healthcare professionals to manage their emotions while understanding and responding to the emotions of others. This skill enhances patient care and fosters positive work relationships.

• Why it matters: Empathy and patience are key to providing excellent care, especially in high-stress environments. In fact, a nurse or doctor with high EQ can better manage difficult situations and connect with patients.
• How to develop it: Practice mindfulness and self-awareness. Learning how to stay calm under pressure is essential. Additionally, showing empathy in patient interactions helps build trust.

6. Leadership and Teamwork

Finally, leadership and teamwork are crucial in healthcare environments. Even if you’re not in a formal leadership role, employers value individuals who show initiative and can collaborate well with others. Strong teamwork leads to better patient outcomes and a smoother workflow.

• Why it matters: Effective teamwork enhances efficiency, patient safety, and overall job satisfaction. Leadership, even informal, helps guide teams through challenges.
• How to develop it: Take on leadership roles in smaller projects. Offering support to colleagues and seeking out team-building opportunities can improve both leadership and teamwork skills.

In 2024, healthcare employers are focusing on a blend of technical and interpersonal skills. Adaptability, digital literacy, communication, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence will be critical for success. By developing these healthcare career skills, you can ensure that you stay competitive in a rapidly evolving field.

Whether you’re starting your healthcare career or looking to advance, being proactive and continuing to learn will help you navigate the healthcare hiring trends of 2024.

Did you know that the national turnover rate for registered nurses is still 18.4%, despite a slight decrease from last year? While some specialties like pediatrics and surgical services see lower turnover, areas such as telemetry and emergency services continue to face much higher rates. With these elevated turnover levels, nurse retention has become one of the top challenges in healthcare today.

Retaining skilled nurses has been a problem for healthcare facilities all across the country. Burnout, long hours, and high-stress environments contribute to high turnover rates. Losing nurses not only affects patient care but also adds extra strain to the remaining staff, creating a cycle of stress and disengagement. The good news is that with effective strategies, facilities can significantly improve nurse retention and thus improve patient are and reduce operating costs.

In this blog, we’ll explore key strategies like healthcare staff recognition to help you retain your most valuable asset—your nursing staff.

Why Nurse Retention is a Major Concern

The healthcare industry is facing a critical shortage of nurses. According to the American Nurses Association, the U.S. will need over a million new nurses by 2030. While accelerated retirements is one main reason for this, many nurses leave the profession early due to factors like burnout, lack of support, and insufficient recognition. When nurses leave, healthcare facilities suffer from increased costs of recruitment, training, and often decreased patient care quality.

Improving nurse retention is not just a human resources goal—it’s essential for maintaining high standards of care and fostering a positive work environment.

Recognizing and Rewarding Healthcare Staff

One of the most effective ways to retain nurses is by recognizing and rewarding their contributions. Healthcare staff recognition boosts morale, creates a positive culture, and motivates nurses to stay with their current employer.

• Regular Acknowledgment: Consistently recognize nurses for their hard work, whether it’s through verbal appreciation, thank-you notes, or team shout-outs.
• Awards and Incentives: Offer formal recognition programs that reward exceptional performance. These can include Nurse of the Month awards, bonuses, or extra time off.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Nurses are more likely to stay when they see opportunities for growth. Create clear career pathways and offer training or mentorship programs that help nurses develop their skills and advance within the organization.

When nurses feel appreciated, they’re more likely to remain engaged, loyal, and motivated to provide excellent patient care.

Work-Life Balance and Flexibility

The demanding nature of nursing often leads to burnout, especially with long shifts and inconsistent schedules. Improving work-life balance is crucial to nurse retention. Offering flexible shift options or rotating schedules can make a significant difference.

• Flexible Scheduling: Give nurses more control over their shifts by offering self-scheduling tools or options for part-time hours.
• Support for Burnout: Provide mental health resources, such as counseling services or wellness programs, to support nurses dealing with stress and exhaustion.

A better work-life balance helps prevent burnout and keeps nurses healthy and happy in their roles, reducing the likelihood of turnover.

Creating a Supportive Work Environment

Nurses are more likely to stay in environments where they feel supported by both management and their peers. Building a collaborative and inclusive workplace is essential for nurse retention.

• Strong Leadership: Train managers and supervisors to offer support, provide regular feedback, and address concerns promptly. A strong leadership team fosters a sense of trust and security among nurses.
• Team Building: Encourage team cohesion through regular team meetings, social events, or cross-training programs. Nurses who feel part of a cohesive team are less likely to seek employment elsewhere.

A positive work environment not only improves job satisfaction but also strengthens loyalty to the facility.

Nurse retention is critical for ensuring the long-term success of healthcare facilities. By focusing on healthcare staff recognition, offering work-life balance, and fostering a supportive environment, facilities can keep their nursing staff engaged and motivated. In turn, this leads to improved patient care, lower turnover rates, and a more positive work culture.

To retain your nurses, start implementing these strategies today. Your staff—and your patients—will thank you.

Are staffing shortages impacting your healthcare facility’s ability to provide quality care? With the growing demand for flexible staffing solutions, many healthcare providers are turning to per diem staffing as a reliable option. But what exactly is per diem staffing, and how can it benefit your facility?

Hiring healthcare staff has become increasingly challenging, particularly as demand rises and burnout becomes a major concern for permanent employees. For healthcare facilities in need of temporary but highly skilled workers, per diem staffing solutions offers a flexible solution. By partnering with per diem agencies, facilities can quickly bring in healthcare professionals on an as-needed basis to fill shifts and cover immediate gaps.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the top FAQs about hiring per diem healthcare staff and explore why it’s a smart choice for many healthcare facilities today.

1. What is Per Diem Staffing?

Per diem staffing refers to hiring healthcare professionals who work on an as-needed basis. Unlike permanent staff, per diem workers do not have regular shifts. Instead, they are available to fill gaps in the schedule when a healthcare facility requires extra hands. This flexibility is particularly beneficial during seasonal surges, employee absences, or last-minute staffing needs.

Healthcare facilities often partner with per diem staffing agencies to source qualified professionals such as registered nurses, certified nursing assistants, and medical assistants. These workers are typically paid a daily or hourly rate, making the process straightforward and efficient.

2. What Are the Benefits of Hiring Per Diem Staff?

Hiring per diem healthcare staff offers several advantages, especially for healthcare facilities that experience fluctuating patient volumes or unexpected staff shortages. Here are some key benefits:

• Flexibility: Per diem workers are available on short notice and for varying timeframes, whether for a single shift or multiple days. This flexibility helps healthcare facilities adjust their staffing levels based on demand.
• Cost-Effective: Hiring permanent staff to handle temporary increases in patient load can be costly. Per diem staffing allows facilities to meet short-term needs without the long-term financial commitment of full-time employees.
• Immediate Availability: When last-minute absences or sudden spikes in patient volumes occur, per diem staff can step in quickly to ensure that patient care is uninterrupted.
• Reduced Burnout: Using per diem staffing relieves the burden on permanent employees, preventing burnout and boosting morale among your full-time team.

3. How Does Per Diem Staffing Work With an Agency?

Working with a per diem agency simplifies the hiring process and gives healthcare facilities quick access to a pool of experienced professionals. Here’s how the process works:

1. Assess Staffing Needs: The facility identifies which roles need to be filled and the qualifications required.
2. Request Per Diem Staff: The agency connects the facility with pre-screened professionals who are qualified and ready to work on short notice.
3. Onboarding and Training: While per diem staff usually require minimal training, facilities may provide a brief orientation to familiarize them with the facility’s protocols.

By partnering with a per diem staffing agency, healthcare organizations can efficiently address their staffing needs without the lengthy process of recruiting and hiring.

4. What Qualifications Do Per Diem Staff Need?

Healthcare facilities rely on per diem staffing agencies to ensure that workers meet the necessary qualifications. Generally, per diem staff must have:

• Valid healthcare licenses and certifications (such as RN, LPN, CNA)
• Relevant experience in their area of expertise
• Completed background checks and drug screenings

Because agencies handle the vetting process, the professionals provided are typically ready to step in and provide high-quality care with little to no delay.

5. Per Diem Staffing vs. Travel Nursing: What’s the Difference?

While both per diem staffing and travel nursing provide flexible staffing options, they serve different purposes. Here’s how they compare:

• Duration: Per diem staff work day-to-day, filling short-term gaps in local facilities. Travel nurses typically take assignments that last several weeks or months and may relocate for the duration.
• Location: Per diem staff are generally local, whereas travel nurses are hired to fill needs in different regions or states.
• Cost: Hiring travel nurses involves covering relocation and housing expenses. Per diem staffing is often more cost-effective for facilities that need short-term, local staffing solutions.

If your facility needs temporary support but doesn’t require long-term or out-of-state employees, per diem staffing may be the better option.

FAQs About Per Diem Staffing

6. How Does Per Diem Staffing Solutions Improve Patient Care?

When healthcare facilities are adequately staffed, patients benefit from shorter wait times and receive more personalized care. Per diem staff allow facilities to maintain the appropriate patient-to-caregiver ratio, especially during peak times. By preventing burnout among permanent staff, per diem staffing ensures that both patients and caregivers are well-supported.

7. What is the Compensation Structure for Per Diem Staff?

Per diem staff are compensated on a daily or hourly basis. Pay rates often depend on the worker’s level of experience, the facility’s budget, and the duration of the assignment. Per diem workers typically earn higher hourly wages than full-time staff due to the temporary nature of their work. However, they may not receive benefits like health insurance or paid time off.

8. Can I Rehire the Same Per Diem Staff?

Yes, healthcare facilities can request the same per diem staff for future shifts, especially if they are familiar with the facility’s processes and have performed well in the past. This not only maintains continuity in patient care but also reduces the time needed for onboarding.

9. What Role Do Agencies Play in Per Diem Staffing?

Per diem agencies manage the recruitment, vetting, and hiring process for healthcare facilities. They ensure that the healthcare professionals provided are licensed, experienced, and ready to start immediately. This streamlined process allows facilities to fill staffing gaps quickly and effectively without the hassle of sourcing candidates independently.

10. Are Per Diem Staff Eligible for Benefits?

Most per diem workers do not receive traditional benefits such as health insurance or paid time off. However, some staffing agencies may offer limited benefits or bonuses based on the frequency or length of assignments. The temporary nature of per diem work typically means that compensation focuses on higher hourly wages rather than long-term benefits.

11. Can Per Diem Staff Transition to Permanent Roles?

Yes, many healthcare facilities use per diem staffing as an opportunity to evaluate potential full-time hires. If a per diem worker demonstrates strong skills and integrates well with the team, facilities may offer them a permanent position. This flexible approach allows facilities to “test out” staff before committing to a long-term hire.

Why Hiring Per Diem Staff is a Smart Choice for Healthcare Facilities

In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, staffing shortages and fluctuating patient volumes are constant challenges. Hiring per diem staff offers a flexible and cost-effective solution to meet these demands without sacrificing the quality of care. Whether you need extra help for seasonal surges, to cover staff absences, or to prevent burnout among your permanent staff, per diem staffing provides the support you need.

By partnering with a per diem agency, healthcare facilities gain access to skilled professionals who are ready to step in and ensure that patient care remains a top priority. This approach not only helps maintain a balanced workload for your team but also keeps your facility running smoothly during even the busiest times.

If your healthcare facility is struggling to meet staffing demands, now is the time to explore the benefits of per diem staffing. With the help of a trusted per diem agency, like EmpowerCare, you can rest easy knowing your facility will always be fully staffed and prepared for whatever comes next.

Flu season is here, and healthcare facilities are already feeling the strain. Flu season often causes a sharp increase in patient volumes, leading to millions of flu-related doctor visits and hospitalizations each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many hospitals, clinics, and care centers are finding themselves short-staffed. Managing this surge while maintaining patient care is crucial. Fortunately, temporary healthcare staffing can help you address this immediate need.

As flu season begins, healthcare facilities face a surge in patient numbers. The sudden influx can quickly overwhelm your staff and reduce the quality of care. This often leads to burnout among permanent staff. Unfortunately, many organizations are scrambling to fill staffing gaps at the last minute. To avoid this, leveraging temporary healthcare staffing can help you manage the current demand, while ensuring uninterrupted patient care.

In this blog, we’ll show how flu season staffing solutions can help you overcome this challenge. You’ll gain access to skilled professionals who can integrate with your team during these crucial months.

1. The Current Flu Season Challenge

Flu season is notorious for causing patient spikes, and this year is no different. Hospitals and clinics are seeing an influx of flu-related cases, which increases the demand for care. According to the CDC, millions of flu cases occur annually, putting a heavy burden on healthcare facilities. This influx can easily overwhelm permanent staff, leading to longer wait times and exhausted teams.

However, there is a way to reduce these pressures. Flu season staffing solutions help you manage this increase, providing extra hands when your team needs it most. Bringing in temporary staff ensures patient care standards remain high, even during the busiest times.

2. Why Temporary Healthcare Staffing Is Essential Right Now

With flu season already in full swing, temporary healthcare staffing is a critical strategy for managing patient surges. By bringing in skilled, temporary professionals, facilities can cover shifts or fill gaps caused by illness or overworked staff. These professionals not only help with workload distribution but also bring fresh energy to teams that may be suffering from fatigue.

Additionally, hiring temporary staff allows permanent employees to focus on their primary duties. This improves overall efficiency and reduces the risk of errors or burnout. By having extra hands on deck, you ensure that every patient receives the care they deserve.

3. Practical Steps for Immediate Flu Season Preparation

Even though flu season has already started, it’s not too late to act. By taking immediate steps, you can minimize the strain flu season puts on your facility. Here’s how:

• Evaluate current staffing needs: Assess your team’s workload and identify where gaps exist.
• Partner with a reliable staffing agency: Contact a trusted agency like EmpowerCare for quick access to qualified healthcare professionals.
• Create a flexible staffing plan: Ensure you have the right number of temporary staff to support your permanent team.

Taking these steps now can prevent future disruptions in patient care. You’ll also avoid putting additional strain on your current staff.

EmpowerCare as Your Flu Season Partner

At EmpowerCare, we understand the unique demands of flu season. That’s why we provide flu season staffing solutions tailored to your needs. Our pool of experienced healthcare professionals can step in immediately to support your team during the busiest times of the year. Whether you need nurses, LPNs, or other specialists, our professionals are ready to help.

By partnering with us, you gain access to customized staffing solutions that respond to the current demands of flu season. Our mission is to keep your facility running smoothly and ensure that every patient receives top-notch care, even during peak flu season.

Conclusion

Flu season is here, but your facility doesn’t have to suffer from staffing shortages. With temporary healthcare staffing, you can fill the gaps, protect your permanent staff from burnout, and maintain quality care for your patients. Don’t wait until your team is overwhelmed—contact EmpowerCare today and get started on your flu season staffing plan.