Are you tired of a 9-5 job? and looking for something more flexible? Nursing offers a variety of pathways with its rewards and benefits. If you want to work extra shifts to make more money or want a more stable job. You can choose between the two most popular options per diem nursing or part-time nursing. Which one will fit your lifestyle and what will work best for you? We will discuss it in this blog!
What is per diem nursing?
Per diem means “per day.” These RNs choose their shifts and make their own decisions about when they want to work. Per diem, nurses get paid on a per-day basis. Healthcare facilities need the help of per diem nurses when there is a shortage of staff, and they want someone to fill the gap. Per diem, nurse’s schedules may vary from a single day to several days.
What is part-time nursing?
Part-time nurses work less than 30 hours per week. They have permanent nursing positions in the healthcare facility, but their working hours are less as compared to that of full-time nurses.
What is the difference between Per diem RNs and part-time nurses?
The main difference between per diem nurses and part-time nurses is that the per diem nurses are not committed to a fixed schedule and they can work when they are needed. The pay is higher than part-time nurses, but their working hours are less and not guaranteed.
As for part-time nurses they have permanent positions in the healthcare facility but work fewer hours than a full-time nurse. Part-time nurses work for a few days a week depending on the hours. Their hours are usually 20 to 30 hours per week, which is less than full-time nurses who work 40 hours or more per week.
Per diem nursing
Benefits
There are many advantages of being a per diem nurse, such as:
Flexible schedule:
One of the benefits of per diem nurses is that they have flexible schedules and can choose their hours. They can work as little or as much as possible. This helps them maintain their work-life balance.
Higher pay:
Comparing per diem vs part-time nurse salaries, we can say that per diem nurses are paid more or more than part-time nurses. The reason is that their work hours are not fixed. Per diem, RNs are paid higher because their work hours are not guaranteed.
Freedom:
The best part about being a per diem RN is the freedom to change facility and you are not committed to one facility. You can select your hours and facilities and can take time off when needed.
Professional and personal development:
Per diem, nurses work at different healthcare facilities, hospitals, and clinics giving them more exposure. They learn new skills and technology. They learn new procedures and how to work in different healthcare environments. This helps per diem nurses to grow professionally and personally.
Extra source of income:
Per diem, nurses can make more money if they want to work extra shifts. The demand for nursing increases during the holiday season because many full-time nurses want a day off. This is the perfect opportunity to work extra shifts without any commitment and make more money.
Future job opportunities:
One other benefit of per diem nursing is that they work and different healthcare facilities, so they meet new people. This helps them grow their connections. This helps them in growing their job opportunities.
Drawbacks
Per diem, jobs come with a lot of benefits, but it has their drawbacks too such as
- No job security
- No benefits like paid holidays or health insurance
- Irregular schedule
- No guaranteed hours
- Unpredictable income
Part-time nursing
Benefits
Here are the advantages of part-time nursing if you are thinking of choosing it as your career path.
Job benefits:
Part-time nurses have the advantage of benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, sick leave, and retirement plans.
Predictable working hours:
The difference between part-time vs per diem nurses is that part-time nurses have predictable hours. This can help the nurses to plan their schedules. This predictable scheduling in part-time nursing jobs helps nurses to maintain a work-life balance.
Work-life balance:
Part-time nurse hours are less than that of full-time nurses. They work for a few days a week; hence this helps them to have more time on hand. With this extra time, nurses can focus on their interests and have a work-life balance.
Job stability:
Unlike per diem RNs, part-time nurses have job stability. Their work hours are guaranteed and hence they can make their financial plans and not have to worry much about pay.
Less stressful than full-time nursing:
Part-time nursing jobs are less stressful than full-time nursing jobs because part-time nurses work less than 30 hours per week. While full-time nurses work 40 hours or more per week.
Drawbacks of part-time nursing
- If you are thinking of becoming a part-time nurse, it is important to consider its drawbacks too, so can choose the best for your lifestyle.
- Reduced income as compared to full-time nurses.
- Limited benefits.
- Less job security than full-time nurses.
- Inconsistent scheduling.
Can nurses work part-time?
Yes, nurses can work part-time. If you do not want to commit to 40 plus 40-plus-hour schedule and want something more flexible, then a part-time nursing job is a good choice for you.
How many days do part-time nurses work?
Part-time nurses work 2-3 days per week depending on the hours they are working. Usually, they work for 20 to 30 hours per week.
Do part-time nurses get benefits?
Yes, part-time nurses do get benefits. Depending on the facility their benefits may be limited as compared to full-time nurses.
What does per diem mean in nursing?
Per diem in nursing means a nurse who works per day. They are not committed to the facility. They can choose their hours and shifts and are paid accordingly.
