Per Diem Nursing: The Ultimate Guide

Looking for more flexibility in your nursing career? Then per diem nursing may be the perfect fit for you!

As a per diem nurse, you get to pick and choose where and when you work. Better yet, these gigs typically pay more than full-time nurse jobs to offset the lack of benefits and sometimes-unpredictable scheduling.

But, how does it work? Why should you consider a career as a per diem nurse? And how much can you expect to make?

Well, we’ll answer all these questions and everything else you may want to know throughout this article. If you’re ready to start working as a freelance nurse, keep reading!

What Is Per Diem Nursing?

Per Diem Nursing allows nurses to work on an as-needed, day-by-day basis. The term “per diem” means “per day” in Latin, reflecting the nature of this type of employment. 

Rather than work on a predetermined part- or full-time schedule, nurses work shifts only when healthcare facilities require them. 

This type of employment is useful to healthcare facilities because they often experience fluctuations in patient volume or sudden staff shortages due to illness, vacations, or other reasons. Per diem nursing allows them to fill these shortages without committing to long-term contracts.

Overall, it can be a great option for nurses looking for flexible employment options as they balance other responsibilities, like family, further education, and avoiding burnout. Additionally, per diem gigs typically provide higher pay, as well as other advantages that we’ll discuss later on.

Is Per Diem Nursing The Same As PRN?

Per diem nursing and PRN nursing are similar, but there are a few key differences between them.

PRN stands for “pro re nata”, which is Latin for “as needed”. Like per diem nurses, healthcare facilities use PRN nurses to fill short-term staffing gaps. 

However, PRN nurses are typically part of a facility’s internal staffing pool, meaning they’re more integrated into a specific facility’s workforce. 

On the other hand, per diem nurses typically work for a staffing agency and are available to work across a number of different facilities. This gives them the freedom to choose from shifts across a number of employers and locations.

Additionally, per diem nurses usually have more flexibility in accepting or declining shifts. Meanwhile, PRN nurses also have flexibility in scheduling, but may be required to adhere to their facility’s scheduling needs and preferences more closely.

Is Per Diem Nursing The Same As Travel Nursing?

While per diem nursing and travel nursing both offer more flexibility than traditional nurse roles, there are significant differences between them.

For example, while per diem nurses work shifts on a day-by-day basis, travel nurses typically commit to contracts lasting anywhere from 8 to 26 weeks.

Additionally, per diem nurses usually work close to home, whereas travel nurses are required to temporarily relocate to a new city or state. 

We should also note that per diem nurses often receive higher hourly pay to compensate for a lack of benefits like health insurance. Meanwhile, most of the best travel nursing agencies provide comprehensive benefits packages, as well as pay exceeding the typical resident nurse salary.

4 Benefits of Per Diem Nursing

Per diem nursing comes with a host of benefits not available to traditional staff nurses. Below, we discuss some of the main advantages of working per diem nurse shifts.

1. Schedule Flexibility

Perhaps the best advantage of working as a per diem nurse is the schedule flexibility it provides. 

You can choose when and where you want to work, allowing you to create a schedule that fits your needs. 

Overall, this flexibility is ideal for nurses who have other commitments, such as family responsibilities, further education, or other part-time jobs.

2. Higher Pay

Per diem nurses usually receive higher hourly wages compared to their full-time counterparts. 

This is because they fill in during times of increased need or for shifts that are difficult to staff. Facilities also pay these nurses more because they aren’t guaranteed a significant number of hours.

While they might not receive the same benefits as full-time employees, the increased pay rate can be a significant advantage, especially when combined with the flexibility in scheduling.

3. Less Administrative Burden

Per diem nurses also often have fewer administrative responsibilities compared to full-time staff. 

This allows them to focus more on patient care and less on paperwork, meetings, and other non-clinical tasks.

Additionally, it allows them to focus more on developing and practicing their clinical skills and knowledge.

4. Supplemental Income Stream

Finally, one more benefit of per diem nursing is that you can use it as a supplemental stream of income.

Since per diem nurses work on a shift-by-shift basis, they can pick and choose when they want to work. 

This means you can continue to work a full- or part-time job, but continue utilizing your skills when it suits your schedule to make some extra money.

How Does Per Diem Nursing Work?

The concept of per diem nursing is quite simple–you work on a day-by-day basis when healthcare facilities need to plug urgent staffing gaps.

Below, we discuss the steps required to begin taking on this kind of freelance nursing work. Just join a staffing agency, browse their available jobs, start working, and get paid!

1. Join A Per Diem Nursing Staffing Agency

Most per diem nurses begin by joining a healthcare staffing agency. These agencies act as intermediaries between nurses and healthcare facilities, matching nurses with available shifts.

Agencies typically require that you undergo a standard hiring process. This usually involves:

• Submitting your credentials
• Undergoing background checks
• Completing necessary training or orientation

2. Browse Shift Availability

Once you’re part of an agency’s staffing pool, they’ll notify you of available shifts. 

Notifications can come through various means, such as phone calls, emails, or mobile app alerts. Alternatively, you may be able to browse a job board of available gigs.

Depending on the facility’s needs, they may offer shifts well in advance or on extremely short notice.

3. Choose A Per Diem Nursing Shift

As we mentioned earlier, one of the main benefits of per diem nursing is the ability to choose when and where to work. 

Nurses can review the available shifts and select the ones that best fit their schedules and preferences. 

This flexibility allows you to balance work with other commitments, such as family commitments, furthering your education, or even other jobs.

4. Work The Per Diem Nursing Shift

Once you accept a shift, you’ll report to your assigned healthcare facility. The facility will integrate you into the existing team for the duration of the shift so you can provide care and support, just like a regular staff nurse. 

As a per diem nurse, it’s critical that you’re adaptable. Employers may require you to work in different departments, or with varying patient populations.

5. Documentation, Reporting, and Getting Paid

Finally, at the end of each shift, per diem nurses complete any necessary documentation and report on their activities and patient care. This ensures continuity of care and keeps the facility informed of any critical developments. 

Payment for per diem shifts is typically processed through the staffing agency. This means you’ll submit your timesheet, and the agency handles the payroll. 

Pay periods and rates can vary by agency, but per diem nurses generally receive competitive hourly wages due to the nature of their work.

Types of Per Diem Nursing Jobs

Per diem nursing jobs are available to nurses of just about every level. Below, we discuss the different types of nurses who can take on per diem nursing gigs.

Per Diem CNA

Unlike full-time CNAs, per diem CNAs have the flexibility to choose their shifts, making it ideal for those balancing other commitments or seeking additional income. 

This role requires quick adaptation to different environments and teams, enhancing both professional skills and versatility in patient care. 

Working per diem can also be a strategic choice for CNAs looking to gain experience across diverse healthcare settings, such as:

• Hospitals
• Nursing homes
• Rehabilitation centers

Per Diem LVN/LPN

Licensed Vocational Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses can also choose to work on a per diem basis. 

Per diem LVNs/LPNs must be adaptable and proficient in their clinical skills, as they may work in different departments or facilities, including:

• Hospitals
• Long-term care facilities
• Clinics
• Home healthcare environments

This flexibility can help expose LPNs and LVNs to a range of different work experiences. Additionally, it’s a great way for them to work a more flexible schedule, or even make some extra money.

Per Diem RN

Per diem Registered Nurses must be highly adaptable, capable of integrating quickly into different teams and departments. They may find themselves working in:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Long-term care facilities
• Home health settings 

Like per diem LVNs and LPNs, this exposure to different clinical settings can help per diem RNs figure out what area of care they’re most passionate about. This can be super helpful for those considering a nursing specialization and/or advanced education.

Of course, like all types of per diem nursing, working on an as-needed basis can be a great way to make extra money or balance work with other commitments.

Per Diem Nurse Practitioner

Finally, even nurse practitioners can work on a per diem basis. Given the high demand for advanced nursing skills across healthcare facilities, per diem NPs can make the most of their skills by filling critical staffing gaps.

Per diem NPs bring a high level of expertise and must be able to quickly adapt to different clinical environments, whether it’s a:

• Hospital
• Outpatient clinic
• Urgent care center
• Private practice

Their advanced skills in diagnosing and managing patient care allow them to provide comprehensive healthcare services. This helps deliver continuity and quality of care, even in temporary assignments.

Per Diem Nursing Requirements

Generally, the requirements to become a per diem nurse are the same as full-time nursing jobs. For example, you’ll still need the appropriate licensure and certifications, background checks, and proficiency in clinical skills.

However, per diem nursing also comes with a few unique challenges you need to be prepared for. For example, you’ll need advanced soft skills, like adaptability and extremely efficient communication.

Additionally, you’ll likely need some prior nursing experience before you can start working on a day-by-day basis.

Below, we discuss all the essential requirements you need to begin working as a per diem nurse.

Licensure and Certifications

Unsurprisingly, you’ll need the appropriate nursing license in order to work as a per diem nurse.

For example, per diem registered nurses must have their RN license from the state in which they wish to work. Likewise, per diem LVNs must have their Licensed Vocational Nursing Certificate.

Additionally, pursuing advanced certifications can help you stand out from the crowd when it comes to securing gigs. 

Experience

The amount of nursing experience required to take on per diem nursing jobs can vary from agency to agency and facility to facility. However, most agencies and facilities will prefer you to have at least a year or two of resident nursing experience.

Additionally, more specialized roles will likely require you to have a minimum number of years of experience in that particular clinical speciality.

Finally, once you’re able to gain some per diem nursing experience, you’ll be a more desirable candidate for other per diem gigs. This is because successful completion of as-needed gigs demonstrates your adaptability, reliability, and your potential to complete gigs successfully.

Background Check and Immunizations

Like full-time nursing jobs, per diem nurses must also complete standard background checks. This typically involves:

• Criminal history check
• Drug screening
• Verification of previous employment

Additionally, you’ll likely need to prove that you are up-to-date with your immunizations so you can provide care to patients safely. 

Likewise, you may need to complete routine health screenings to ensure you’re fit enough for the physical demands of nursing. 

Skills

Like all nursing positions, strong clinical skills relevant to your role are essential. This may include proficiency in :

• Patient assessment
• Medication administration (especially for per diem nurse practitioners)
• Emergency response

Per diem nursing also requires that you’re adept in several soft skills. One of the key skills you’ll need is adaptability, given that you’ll be integrating into different healthcare teams frequently. 

Of course, good communication and teamwork skills will also be critical to your success in per diem nursing jobs.

Continuing Education

Finally, and again similar to full-time nursing roles, you’ll need to stay on top of your continuing education requirements. Most states require that nurses complete a certain number of continuing education credits every few years in order to keep your skills current.

Fortunately, the completion of professional development opportunities can also make you a more desirable job candidate.

So, if you want to secure the best per diem nursing jobs possible, be sure to keep your skills and education up-to-date. This can help you stand out from other candidates in the job market, as well as help you deliver higher-quality care to patients.

Where Can Per Diem Nurses Work?

Per diem nurses have the flexibility to work in a variety of different work settings. In fact, working on an as-needed basis can help you gain experience in a multitude of clinical areas to help you decide if you’d like to specialize in a particular area.

While newer nurses may want to use per diem nursing to explore various clinical areas, experienced nurses can simply use this work model to make extra money, or continue working while they balance other commitments.

Hospitals

Hospitals frequently need per diem nurses to cover shifts in various departments. This might include:

• Emergency rooms
• Intensive care units
• Medical-surgical units
• Maternity wards

Overall, the hospital setting offers a fast-paced work environment where nurses can gain diverse clinical experience.

Additionally, per diem nurses are likely to encounter a wide range of medical conditions and emergencies.

Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities

Nursing homes and long-term care facilities also often have a need for per diem nurses. In this work setting, nurses provide care for elderly or chronically-ill patients.

This environment allows nurses to deliver compassionate care during their shifts, contributing to the overall well-being of residents, even if they don’t form long-term relationships.

Rehabilitation Centers

In rehabilitation centers, per diem nurses help patients recovering from:

• Surgeries
• Injuries
• Illnesses

This setting emphasizes rehabilitation and therapy, providing an opportunity for nurses to work closely with patients on their path to recovery.

While they won’t likely have the chance to see long-term improvement in patients’ health, they do provide critical services to help patients on their path to recovery.

Clinics and Outpatient Facilities

Per diem nurses can also work in outpatient clinics, which may include:

• Specialty clinics
• Urgent care centers
• Ambulatory surgery centers 

These settings typically have regular business hours and focus on non-emergency care, offering more predictable shift hours.

Overall, per diem nursing jobs at outpatient centers allow nurses to assist with delivering clinical care for routine procedures and minor illnesses or injuries.

Home Healthcare

Home healthcare agencies often employ per diem nurses to provide in-home care for patients. 

This role involves traveling to patients’ homes to deliver personalized care, including:

• Administering medications
• Wound care
• Health education

Overall, this type of gig gives per diem nurses the chance to make a meaningful impact in a more personal setting, even if only on a short-term basis.

Hospice and Palliative Care

Per diem nurses in hospice and palliative care provide end-of-life care and support to patients and their families. 

This setting requires a compassionate approach and strong emotional resilience, as it involves managing pain and symptoms while offering comfort and dignity to patients in their final stages of life.

In this role, you can have a profound impact on patients and their loved ones.

Skilled Nursing Facilities

Per diem nurses in skilled nursing facilities provide care for patients requiring a higher level of medical care and rehabilitation services than is typically provided in nursing homes. 

This setting allows nurses to use their clinical skills to manage complex patient needs, often working with patients who are recovering from:

• Surgeries
• Strokes
• Other serious conditions

Overall, per diem nurses in this setting ensure patients receive necessary medical attention and therapy during their stay.

Per Diem Nursing Salary

Overall, the average salary for a per diem nurse is $33 an hour according to ZipRecruiter. However, your compensation potential can vary based on several factors, including location, experience, and more.

Additionally, average salaries for per diem nursing depend on your level of licensure. The following is a breakdown of average per diem nurse salaries by type of nurse in the United States.

Is Per Diem Nursing Worth It?

Per diem nursing offers a unique blend of flexibility, higher pay rates, and diverse work experiences.

Most notably, the ability to choose when and where you work allows you to balance your professional responsibilities with personal commitments. This flexibility can help prevent burnout, as well as promote a healthier work-life balance.

Financially, per diem nurses typically receive higher hourly wages, which helps to compensate for the lack of benefits, like health insurance and paid time off. For those seeking supplemental income or looking to save for future goals, the increased pay can be a significant benefit. 

Additionally, the variety of work environments provides opportunities to gain a broad range of experiences and enhance clinical skills, which is beneficial for career advancement.

However, it’s important to consider the potential downsides. The lack of guaranteed hours can lead to income instability. Also, the absence of traditional employment benefits may require additional planning for healthcare and retirement. 

The need to quickly adapt to different settings and teams can also be challenging for some.

Ultimately, whether per diem nursing is worth it depends on your personal and professional goals. If you value flexibility, variety, and higher pay, becoming a per diem nurse can be a rewarding and fulfilling option. 

Finally, you might also consider travel nursing. Gigs typically last a few weeks, with the added benefits of high salaries and ability to explore new places.

To explore travel nursing opportunities, click here to get started!