As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, per diem nursing has gained increasing popularity among registered nurses (RNs) and other healthcare professionals. But what exactly is per diem nursing, and why is it becoming such an attractive career option for so many? Whether you’re new to nursing or looking to explore more flexible job opportunities, understanding what per diem nursing is and how it works can help you make informed decisions about your career path.
This article will explain the basics of per diem nursing, its benefits, and how it compares to traditional full-time positions, so you can determine if it’s the right fit for you.
What is Per Diem Nursing?
The term “per diem” is Latin for “by the day,” which, in the context of nursing, means that nurses work on an as-needed, day-to-day basis rather than on a full-time or part-time schedule. Per diem nurses are typically hired to fill in when full-time staff are unavailable—whether due to vacations, sick days, or staffing shortages.
Per diem nurses are often employed by staffing agencies or directly by healthcare facilities, and they enjoy the flexibility to choose when and where they work. These nurses do not typically receive the same benefits as full-time employees (such as health insurance or paid time off), but they often earn higher hourly wages in exchange for their irregular schedules and lack of benefits.
How Does Per Diem Nursing Work?
In per diem nursing, nurses work on an as-needed basis, meaning they may be called into work for a single shift or a series of shifts depending on the healthcare facility’s needs. The flexibility of per diem work allows nurses to choose which shifts to accept based on their schedules, making it ideal for those looking for more control over their work-life balance.
Per diem nurses can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home healthcare environments. They may work in different specialties, such as emergency care, pediatrics, or geriatrics, and they often have the opportunity to explore various work environments.
Typically, per diem nurses are compensated at a higher hourly rate than their full-time counterparts because they lack the stability and benefits that come with a permanent position. While per diem nurses do not receive the same employee benefits as full-time staff (such as health insurance or paid leave), they do have the freedom to select their schedules, making it easier to manage personal commitments or explore travel nursing opportunities.
Benefits of Per Diem Nursing
1. Flexibility in Scheduling
One of the biggest advantages of per diem nursing is the flexibility it offers. Nurses can choose their shifts based on their availability, allowing for better control over their work-life balance. This flexibility is especially beneficial for individuals who want to spend more time with family, pursue other interests, or take on additional nursing opportunities.
2. Higher Pay Rates
Per diem nurses typically earn a higher hourly wage than full-time nurses, compensating for the lack of benefits such as paid time off, healthcare coverage, and retirement plans. This pay structure allows nurses to earn more by working fewer shifts, giving them the opportunity to increase their income by choosing high-demand shifts.
3. Variety in Work Environments
For those who enjoy variety, per diem nursing provides an opportunity to work in different healthcare settings. Whether it's a hospital, outpatient clinic, or home healthcare environment, per diem nurses can experience diverse specialties and work conditions, helping to keep the job interesting and stimulating. It also allows nurses to gain experience in various clinical settings, which can enhance their resume and professional development.
4. Opportunity to Try Out New Specialties
If you’re a nurse who wants to explore different areas of healthcare, per diem nursing offers a great opportunity to try out various specialties without committing to a full-time position. This can be especially valuable for nurses who are considering switching specialties or exploring new clinical areas, such as pediatrics, critical care, or labor and delivery.
5. Avoiding Burnout
Burnout is a serious concern in the healthcare industry, especially for nurses working long hours in high-pressure environments. Per diem nursing allows nurses to take breaks between shifts and avoid the stress that can come with a full-time schedule. The ability to take time off between shifts ensures that nurses are well-rested and able to provide the best care for their patients when they return to work.
Per Diem Nursing vs. Full-Time Nursing: Key Differences
While per diem nursing offers significant advantages, it’s essential to understand how it compares to a traditional full-time nursing position.
| Aspect | Per Diem Nursing | Full-Time Nursing |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule | Flexible, as-needed basis | Fixed, regular hours |
| Compensation | Higher hourly rate | Steady salary with benefits |
| Benefits | No benefits (e.g., health insurance, PTO) | Comprehensive benefits (e.g., healthcare, paid time off) |
| Job Security | Less stable | Greater job security and consistency |
| Work Variety | Work in multiple settings and specialties | Typically work in one setting or unit |
While full-time nurses enjoy job stability and benefits, per diem nurses have the flexibility to create their own schedule, work in different settings, and earn more money per hour. The choice ultimately depends on your personal and professional priorities.
Who Should Consider Per Diem Nursing?
Per diem nursing can be a great fit for a variety of individuals, including:
Nurses Seeking Flexibility: If you need to balance work with other commitments, per diem nursing offers the flexibility to create a schedule that works for you.
Retired or Semi-Retired Nurses: For those who no longer want to work full-time but still want to stay active in the workforce, per diem nursing provides an ideal option.
Nurses Looking for More Experience: Nurses who want to explore different specialties or work in various healthcare settings can use per diem opportunities to expand their skill set.
Travel Nurses: Those interested in travel nursing can take advantage of per diem positions to work in various locations across the country while earning higher pay rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What qualifications are required for per diem nursing?
A: Per diem nurses must hold a valid nursing license for the state in which they practice. Additional certifications may be required depending on the specialty or healthcare facility.
Q: Can per diem nurses choose when to work?
A: Yes, per diem nurses have the flexibility to choose which shifts they want to work based on their availability.
Q: Do per diem nurses get benefits like full-time nurses?
A: Generally, per diem nurses do not receive employee benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans. However, they do receive higher hourly pay to compensate for this lack of benefits.
Q: How can I find per diem nursing jobs?
A: You can find per diem nursing jobs through staffing agencies, hospitals, and healthcare facilities that offer flexible staffing solutions. Websites like EmpowerCare specialize in connecting nurses with healthcare employers offering per diem opportunities.
Q: What is the average pay for per diem nurses?
A: Pay varies by location, specialty, and facility, but per diem nurses generally earn higher hourly rates compared to full-time nurses due to the nature of the position.
In conclusion, Per diem nursing is an attractive option for nurses who value flexibility, higher pay rates, and the opportunity to explore different work environments. Whether you’re looking to avoid burnout, try out new specialties, or simply create a work schedule that suits your lifestyle, per diem nursing offers numerous benefits.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and explore exciting per diem opportunities, EmpowerCare can connect you with top healthcare facilities that are looking for qualified professionals. Start your journey today and discover how per diem nursing can offer the career flexibility you’ve been looking for.
Ready to explore per diem nursing? Partner with EmpowerCare today and take control of your nursing career!
