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What is Per Diem Nursing: Insights from a Real Per Diem Nurse

per diem nurse

Per Diem Nursing Meaning 

Per diem, meaning “per day,” refers to a daily rate or allowance paid to an employee for each day worked. In the healthcare industry, per diem nursing is a type of nurse commonly used to address staffing shortages or adjust to fluctuating patient volumes. Unlike full-time or part-time positions, Per diem nurses do not have a set schedule and are utilized on an as-needed basis. 

The Growing Popularity of Per Diem Nursing 

Based on my observations at work, per diem nurse jobs is becoming increasingly popular, especially among younger nurses, including Millennials and Gen Z. My Per Diem nursing job in Los Angeles alone, there are about six of us under 40 years old. The appeal lies in the flexibility it offers—schedules that can be tailored to individual needs, improved work-life balance, and the freedom to choose when to work. 

One of the most significant perks, in my opinion, is the ability to take vacations whenever I want without needing to request time off. Additionally, per diem nurse salary typically earn 15-20% more than full-time nurses with benefits.  

This shift in priorities, with younger nurses valuing mental health and work-life balance, has contributed to the growing popularity of per diem nursing. It allows nurses to have the time and energy to pursue interests and opportunities outside of their primary profession.  

Per Diem Nursing vs. Nurse Traveler 

While both per diem nurses and nurse travelers enjoy flexibility, the two roles are quite different. Personally, I don’t think I could be a nurse traveler. It takes a special kind of nurse to adapt quickly to different environments and work with new people on every assignment. The idea of constantly orienting myself to a new unit and getting along with different staff members is daunting to me. 

However, I recently interviewed one of the nurse travelers in our unit, and she shared her experiences. Per diem nurses usually remain within a specific specialty or unit. For example, I have been working in the same ambulatory surgery center, either in pre-op or recovery, since 2018. I rarely float to other areas, like the OR, unless absolutely necessary. 

In contrast, nurse travelers move between hospitals, often across different states, and must quickly adapt to new environments. Their contracts typically last for a specific period, after which they may move on to another hospital, often seeking more lucrative pay.

Another significant difference is compensation. While per diem nurses earn 15-20% more than full-time nurses, nurse travelers’ pay can vary greatly depending on factors like season, urgency, and specific circumstances. For instance, during high-demand periods, such as flu season or staff strikes, nurse travelers can earn significantly higher wages. 

Nurse travelers also have the advantage of guaranteed hours during their contracts, which means they receive a full paycheck throughout the contract’s duration. On the other hand, per diem nurses might face income instability if they don’t get enough shifts. Personally, as a per diem nurse, I am only required to work one shift per week, but I usually work at least three to four shifts based on my needs. 

What is Per Diem Nursing Like? 

The main difference between a full-time/part-time nurse and a per diem nurse is the flexibility of the work schedule. As a per diem nurse, I get to choose the days I work. Since I work at a same-day surgery center, I only work Monday through Friday, with no holidays. I usually work three days a week, sometimes four if needed. 

In terms of responsibilities, there’s little difference. I primarily work as a PACU nurse, sometimes in Pre-Op, with the same duties as full-time, part-time, and travel nurses.

Challenges of Per Diem Nursing 

While I’ve praised the flexibility of per diem nursing, there are two significant drawbacks: the lack of healthcare benefits and paid vacation time. As a per diem nurse, I have to pay for my and my son’s health insurance, which costs around $800 per month. Although I don’t need to request time off for vacations, I also don’t get paid for that time. This is a sacrifice I’m willing to make to spend more time with my family. 

Another challenge is income inconsistency. Currently, I’m fortunate to work at least three days a week, sometimes four, but that could change. The uncertainty of not knowing if I’ll be canceled or only needed for minimal shifts is something I try not to stress about, but it’s always at the back of my mind. 

Is Per Diem Nursing Worth It? 

People often ask, “Do per diem nurses make good money?” or “ How much more do per diem nurses make?” 

As a PACU Per diem nurse in Los Angeles, my hourly Nurse Salary rate is $90/hour, which is higher than the median rate according to Nurse.org. Based on my hours, I make enough to support myself, my son (with my partner’s help), and still manage living expenses in LA, with some fun money and savings for emergencies and retirement. 

However, per diem nursing isn’t for everyone, especially with high healthcare costs. According to Forbes, health insurance for a family of three can exceed $1,000 monthly. 

Tips for Thriving as a Per Diem Nurse 

Given the income uncertainty associated with per diem nursing, I’m meticulous about budgeting. I account for healthcare, sick days, and vacation time in my financial planning. I use a budgeting app to keep track of my expenses and ensure I stay within my means. Additionally, I’ve built an emergency fund that covers 6-8 months of expenses, which I keep in a high-yield savings account to earn interest. 

Furthermore, I contribute to a 401(k) and ensure I’m meeting my employer’s match while maximizing my contributions to lower my tax rate. Planning for the future is essential, even in a flexible and somewhat unpredictable career path like per diem nursing. 

Beyond budgeting and saving, it’s crucial to have a side hustle to supplement your income as a per diem nurse. I work as a nurse consultant for homecare agencies, including home health and hospice, to diversify my income. This additional revenue stream helps stabilize my finances and provides a safety net against the variability of per diem work. 

Summary 

Per diem nursing offers greater flexibility and freedom, making it an attractive option for nurses seeking a well-balanced work-life schedule. This trend is especially popular among Millennials and Gen Z, who prioritize mental health and work-life balance. However, anyone considering per diem nursing must weigh its pros and cons, such as the lack of healthcare coverage and paid vacation time. Due to income variability, it’s crucial to manage personal finances carefully, budget wisely, and diversify income streams to mitigate the risks associated with fluctuating earnings. 

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