In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, nurses now have more career options than ever before. One increasingly popular path is per diem nursing, a flexible, short-term staffing model that allows registered nurses (RNs), licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), and other professionals to pick up shifts as needed without committing to full-time employment. Whether you’re seeking better work-life balance, higher pay per shift, or the chance to explore different facilities, per diem nursing can offer a range of exciting opportunities.
What is Per Diem Nursing?
Per diem nursing refers to on-demand or short-term work where nurses are hired to fill in staffing gaps on a daily or contractual basis. Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities rely on per diem nurses to maintain safe staffing levels when full-time employees are on vacation, out sick, or during times of high patient volume.
Assignments can range from single-day shifts to 13-week contracts, depending on the employer’s needs and the nurse’s availability. This model is ideal for those who want to maintain control over their schedule while gaining a broad spectrum of professional experience.
Benefits of Per Diem Nursing
1. Flexible Scheduling
One of the most attractive benefits of per diem nursing is flexibility. You choose the shifts that work for you—whether it’s weekends, nights, or weekdays. This level of autonomy is perfect for parents, students, semi-retired nurses, or anyone seeking to balance work with personal obligations.
2. Higher Pay Rates
Per diem nurses typically earn higher hourly rates compared to their full-time counterparts. Because these positions are often last-minute or temporary, employers are willing to offer premium pay to fill critical staffing needs. This makes per diem nursing an excellent option for those looking to supplement their income quickly.
3. Work in Diverse Healthcare Settings
With per diem nursing, you get to work in a variety of healthcare environments—hospitals, urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, and more. This provides a rich learning experience, allowing you to develop new skills, adapt to different workflows, and build a more versatile resume.
4. Networking Opportunities
Moving between multiple facilities gives you the chance to build professional relationships across a wider network. This can lead to long-term contract offers, permanent positions, or recommendations that boost your career.
5. Control Over Your Career Path
Per diem nurses enjoy a sense of independence rarely found in traditional nursing roles. You’re not tied to hospital politics, mandatory overtime, or a fixed schedule. You have the freedom to accept only the assignments that align with your personal and professional goals.
Short-Term Contracts: 13-Week Assignments
While many associate per diem nursing with daily shifts, some facilities offer short-term contracts—commonly in 8 to 13-week intervals. These contracts are ideal for nurses who want more predictability while still enjoying flexibility and higher compensation.
A 13-week contract typically includes:
- Guaranteed hours each week
- A consistent location
- Competitive hourly wages
- Often, a completion bonus or travel reimbursement
This hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds: the freedom of per diem nursing with the structure of a temporary full-time role.
Is Per Diem Nursing Right for You?
If you value freedom, flexibility, and financial opportunity, per diem nursing might be a perfect fit. However, it’s important to note that per diem roles typically do not include benefits such as health insurance or paid time off. Nurses interested in this path should be self-motivated, adaptable, and comfortable with change.
Whether you’re looking to explore new specialties, earn extra income, or achieve a better work-life balance, per diem nursing opens doors to a dynamic and fulfilling career in healthcare.
Conclusion
Per diem nursing offers unmatched flexibility, diverse experiences, and the chance to take control of your professional life. From single-day assignments to 13-week contracts, it’s a versatile career option that continues to grow in demand. If you’re ready to experience nursing on your own terms, per diem work might be your next smart move.
Are You Looking Forper diem nursing opportunities in California?
Partnering with a trusted nurse staffing agency ProEd Consulting can help you find the right opportunities in Forper diem nursing. ProEd Consulting is Southern California’s top travel nurse staffing agency, connecting healthcare professionals with per diem, 13-week contracts, and permanent placements. Schedule a call with us today.