Top 6 Pros and Cons of Per Diem Nursing Jobs
When it comes to per diem nursing, flexibility is the defining factor. This unique work arrangement presents several benefits, as stated by Nicole T., a senior recruitment manager for AMN Healthcare, and an insightful voice on the reality of per diem work. However, like any career choice, it can also have its drawbacks.
As you consider whether this work option might be right for you, consider these pros and cons of per diem nursing.
Pros of Per Diem Nursing
Flexibility
If you cherish flexibility, then you may be very well-suited to per diem work. “You can make your own schedule,” Nicole said. Even if you’re working full-time at a regular nursing job, you can still pick up an occasional per diem shift.
As the master of your own schedule, this freedom is especially useful for those who need to juggle family responsibilities, academic pursuits, or other personal interests. There’s no minimum or maximum number of shifts required by AMN Healthcare, Nicole added, so you don’t have to feel pressured to pick up a per diem shift. You just can’t pick up shifts that total more than 40 hours per week, without prior approval.
Higher Pay Rates
Per diem nursing positions generally offer higher pay rates than other types of nursing roles. The increased pay for per diem nurses reflects the trade-offs involved; these professionals step into various settings, sometimes at short notice, to fill critical staffing gaps. This compensates for their readiness to work under flexible conditions and for the lack of traditional employment benefits.
Variety of Settings
Perhaps you've recently relocated to a new city, or you're keen to explore employment at a new facility. Maybe you're simply eager to gain a deeper understanding of local employers. With per diem nursing, you can pick up a few shifts at one of those hospitals or clinics and get some firsthand experience.
In fact, working per diem nursing jobs might even make it easier for you to get hired in a permanent job in some organizations. You can impress them with your clinical skills and knowledge.
“It’s a really good foot-in-the-door experience,” said Nicole. “It’s good exposure. You get to know the managers, and you get to know a lot of other people there, too.”
Cons of Per Diem Nursing
Inconsistent Schedule
The unpredictability of shift availability is a notable challenge in per diem nursing. Nurses working per diem need to be flexible and on standby, prepared to step in at short notice. While this way of working may not be suited to everyone, those who excel in per diem nursing have mastered the art of spontaneity.
Lack of Benefits
Another challenge is the lack of traditional job benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. However, flexibility and higher pay often compensate for the shortfall of benefits. Fortunately, AMN Healthcare provides a variety of benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans, to our per diem nurses. For more details about the benefits nurses receive with us, visit our benefits page.
Limited Job Security
With the power of personal freedom comes its own set of challenges for per diem nurses, particularly the uncertainty of ongoing employment compared to full-time or even travel nurse positions.
The nature of per diem work means that shifts are based on the fluctuating needs of healthcare facilities, leading to periods of abundant work opportunities as well as downtimes when demand decreases. The unpredictability may be challenging for nurses who rely on a steady income or prefer stable employment.
Embrace Work-life Balance as a Per Diem Nurse
If you are someone who values flexibility and wants the potential to earn more, consider applying for a per diem nursing position through AMN Healthcare. Embrace this opportunity to shape your own schedule and boost your earnings. Take control of your career and apply today!
