What is per diem nursing?

Per diem nursing, also known as agency nursing or casual nursing, refers to a type of nursing employment where the nurse works on an as-needed basis, filling in for regular staff members who are absent or during periods of high patient volume. Per diem nurses are typically hired through agencies or staffing firms and may work in a variety of healthcare settings including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and home health care.

Per diem nurses have the flexibility to choose their own schedule and can work full-time, part-time, or on a temporary basis. They often have the opportunity to work at different facilities and gain a wide range of clinical experience. Per diem nursing can be a good option for nurses who prefer a more flexible work schedule or who are looking to supplement their income.

While per diem nursing can offer flexibility and variety in work environments, it may also come with challenges such as uncertainty of work schedule, lack of benefits, and variability in pay rates. Nurses who work per diem may need to be prepared to adapt quickly to different work settings and patient populations.

Overall, per diem nursing can be a rewarding career choice for nurses who enjoy variety in their work, flexibility in scheduling, and the opportunity to gain diverse clinical experience.