Top Per Diem Jobs in Nursing
The nursing profession offers a variety of career paths, each with its own challenges and rewards. Among these, per diem nursing stands out as an attractive option for those seeking flexibility, competitive pay, and diverse work environments. Whether you're a seasoned nurse looking to balance your career with personal responsibilities or a newly licensed RN exploring the job market, per diem nursing might be the perfect fit.
This guide dives into the best per diem jobs in nursing, offering insights into the roles, benefits, and tips for navigating the nursing job market.
What is Per Diem Nursing?
Per diem nursing refers to short-term, daily nursing assignments where healthcare professionals work on an as-needed basis. "Per diem" means "per day" in Latin, highlighting the flexible nature of these jobs. Hospitals, clinics, and other care facilities often rely on per diem nurses to fill in during busy periods, staff shortages, or unexpected absences.
Why Per Diem Nursing?
- Flexibility: Pick shifts that align with your availability. Whether you're balancing family, further studies, or personal projects, per diem nursing lets you control your schedule.
- Higher Pay: Per diem nurses often receive higher hourly rates compared to full-time staff due to the temporary nature of their assignments.
- Experience Variety: Exposure to different healthcare environments can enrich your skills and expand your expertise.
- Work-Life Balance: You can work more during peak hiring seasons and pull back during slower periods, making it an ideal setup for many nursing professionals.
Top Per Diem Nursing Jobs
Here are some of the most requested per diem jobs you'll find with AMN Healthcare:
1. Cath Lab Registered Nurse
Cath Lab RNs assist in cardiac procedures in which a wire is threaded from the patient’s hip to their heart. It is important that they know what all the equipment is, including stents, balloons, and wires. Cath Lab RNs work at hospitals in the procedure room (like a small OR) providing the physician with the proper instruments. The education and requirements include a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) or AND (Associates Degree in Nursing). RNs much have their active RN license in the state they want to work and ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) certification is often required.
2. ICU Registered Nurse
ICU RNs provide highly specialized care to patients who suffer from a serious injury or illness. They usually work in the ICU unit of a hospital, sometimes called Critical Care. ICU RN’s may be asked to float to PCU or Tele. The education and requirements include the typical BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) or AND (Associates Degree in Nursing), and have an active state RN license. Often required is ACLS certification and CRRT (Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy) certification.
3. Emergency Room (ER) Registered Nurse
ER RNs quickly recognize life-threatening problems and are trained to help solve trauma or injuries on the spot. ER RN’s work in hospital emergency rooms and departments (ER and ED), ambulances, helicopters, urgent care centers, sports arenas, and more. There are trauma ratings (I-III) given to ERs and hospitals based on the resources available in the trauma center and the number of patients admitted annually. Level I is the highest, meaning they can provide top care for every injury and level III is the lowest. The education and requirements include a BSN or ADN and an active state RN license. Some jobs require Level 1 trauma experience and a TNCC (Trauma Nurse Core Course) certification.
4. Medical Surgical (MS) Registered Nurse
MS RNs care for adult patients who are acutely ill with a wide variety of medical problems and diseases or are recovering from surgery. They operative in the med surg unit where patients are in recovery prior to being discharged. They handle large workloads, including juggling multiple patient populations. The education and requirements include a BSN or ADN and an active state RN license, and some jobs require ACLS certification.
5. Telemetry (Tele) Registered Nurse
Tele RNs monitor patients’ vital signs and are required for post-ICU care, usually cardiac. Tele RN’s typically work in a hospital setting. This position requires a BSN or ADN and an active state nursing license, and some positions require ACLS and Tele certifications.
Tips for Success in Per Diem Nursing
- Stay Adaptable: Each facility has its own policies and procedures. Being adaptable will help you hit the ground running.
- Maintain Credentials: Ensure your nursing license and certifications (like BLS or ACLS) are up to date.
- Be Prepared for Challenges: Because you’re not part of the regular staff, you’ll need to quickly adapt to new teams and environments.
- Build a Reputation: Show reliability and competence to increase your chances of being called back for more assignments.
Is Per Diem Nursing Right for You?
Per diem nursing isn’t for everyone—but it’s a fantastic choice for those who thrive in diverse settings, need flexibility, or want to boost their income. Whether you're an experienced nurse looking for variety or a new graduate exploring the nursing job market, per diem nursing offers plenty of rewards.
If you’re ready to dip your toes into the world of per diem nursing jobs, start exploring opportunities today. The nursing job market is brimming with possibilities, and your next adventure might be just a shift away!
