As a registered nurse (RN), you have plenty of career options, from full-time positions to travel nursing. One increasingly popular choice is working per diem registered nurse jobs. Per diem, meaning “by the day,” allows nurses to pick up shifts as needed, offering unparalleled flexibility and the chance to tailor work schedules to personal and professional priorities.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of per diem nursing jobs, why they’re a great fit for many RNs, and how they can help you achieve better work-life balance while advancing your career.
What Are Per Diem Registered Nurse Jobs?
Per diem jobs for RNs are temporary, on-call shifts that fill immediate staffing needs at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. These positions are not tied to long-term contracts, making them ideal for nurses seeking flexibility and control over their work schedules.
- Typical Settings: Per diem RNs work in various environments, such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, and outpatient clinics.
- Key Features: Shifts can vary from a single day to multiple weeks, depending on the facility’s needs.
Benefits of Working Per Diem as a Registered Nurse
1. Flexible Scheduling
One of the most significant advantages of per diem jobs is the freedom to choose when and where you work. This flexibility allows you to:
- Balance work with personal commitments like family, travel, or education.
- Avoid burnout by spacing out shifts according to your preferences.
- Fill gaps in your schedule during slower periods in other nursing roles.
2. Competitive Pay Rates
Per diem RNs often earn higher hourly wages compared to their full-time counterparts. Facilities are willing to pay a premium for short-term staffing, making per diem shifts a lucrative option for RNs looking to maximize their income.
- Additional Bonuses: Some facilities offer shift differentials or extra pay for nights, weekends, or holidays.
- Opportunity to Earn More: Picking up shifts at multiple facilities can significantly boost your earnings.
3. Diverse Work Environments
Per diem nursing jobs allow you to explore various healthcare settings, broadening your experience and skill set. Benefits include:
- Gaining exposure to different specialties, such as pediatrics, oncology, or surgery.
- Building adaptability and confidence by working in new environments.
- Expanding your professional network by connecting with healthcare teams across multiple facilities.
4. Work-Life Balance
For many RNs, per diem work offers a better balance between professional and personal life. Without the obligations of a full-time schedule, you can:
- Take time off for vacations, family events, or personal hobbies without needing approval.
- Avoid being tied to a single facility’s policies or workplace culture.
- Reduce stress and prioritize self-care by managing your workload.
5. Opportunity to Test New Roles
Per diem jobs are an excellent way to explore different specialties or facilities without committing to a long-term contract. If you’re considering a career shift or just starting as an RN, per diem nursing offers:
- A chance to find your niche in the healthcare field.
- Opportunities to gain experience in high-demand areas like critical care or telehealth.
- A low-risk way to evaluate potential employers or new locations.
Who Should Consider Per Diem Nursing Jobs?
Per diem registered nurse jobs are ideal for:
- New Graduates: Gain experience across various settings while building your resume.
- Experienced Nurses: Enjoy flexibility and high pay while leveraging your skills.
- Travel Nurses: Fill gaps between assignments or explore new cities.
- Part-Time Nurses: Supplement income while maintaining a lighter workload.
- Retired Nurses: Stay connected to the profession without committing to full-time hours.
Tips for Finding Per Diem Jobs as an RN
1. Partner with a Staffing Agency
A reputable staffing agency specializing in per diem nursing jobs can connect you with opportunities that align with your skills, preferences, and location.
2. Leverage Online Job Boards
Search for per diem shifts using platforms that allow you to filter by specialty, location, and pay rate.
3. Stay Credentialed
Ensure your nursing license, certifications (like BLS or ACLS), and immunizations are up to date to streamline the hiring process.
4. Network with Local Facilities
Reach out to nearby hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes to inquire about per diem needs. Building relationships with staffing coordinators can lead to regular opportunities.
Challenges of Per Diem Nursing Jobs (and How to Overcome Them)
While per diem nursing offers many benefits, it’s not without challenges. Here are some common obstacles and how to address them:
1. Inconsistent Hours
Shifts may not always be available, leading to fluctuations in income.
Solution: Work with multiple facilities or agencies to increase your opportunities and fill your schedule.
2. Limited Benefits
Many per diem roles don’t offer healthcare insurance or paid time off.
Solution: At EmpowerCare, we believe in taking care of our per diem staff. That’s why we offer paid time off and health insurance for staff working 30 hours per week, ensuring you have the support you need while enjoying the flexibility of per diem nursing. Partnering with EmpowerCare gives you access to the perks of full-time employment without sacrificing your freedom.
3. Adapting to New Environments
Constantly working in new facilities can be overwhelming.
Solution: Build a strong foundation of clinical skills and maintain a positive, adaptable attitude. Preparation and confidence can help you succeed in any setting.
By choosing the right staffing partner, like EmpowerCare, you can overcome these challenges and thrive as a per diem registered nurse.
Why Per Diem Registered Nurse Jobs Are Worth It
Working as a per diem RN offers unmatched flexibility, competitive pay, and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. Whether you’re seeking a better work-life balance, exploring new specialties, or maximizing your income, per diem nursing jobs provide the perfect solution.
If you’re ready to take control of your schedule and explore exciting opportunities, start your search for per diem registered nurse jobs today. It’s time to enjoy the freedom and variety that per diem work offers while making a meaningful impact in the lives of your patients.