Choosing a career in nursing is both rewarding and fulfilling. However, it can also be challenging, especially when it comes to deciding on the type of nursing job that suits your lifestyle. If you’re looking for flexibility without sacrificing a steady nursing career, becoming a per diem local travel nurse may be the perfect option for you.
What is a Per Diem Local Travel Nurse?
A per diem local travel nurse is a licensed nurse who’s hired by a healthcare facility for a short period to fill in for a shift or to cover staff shortages. These nurses are typically compensated on a per diem basis, which means they’re paid a daily rate for each day they work.
Local travel nurses, on the other hand, are nurses who work in temporary positions in various healthcare facilities within their local area. They work on a short-term basis, usually a few days to a few weeks.
Why Choose a Career as a Per Diem Local Travel Nurse?
There are many benefits to becoming a per diem local travel nurse. Firstly, you can enjoy the freedom to work when you want, where you want, and for as long as you want. This flexibility allows you to balance your work with your personal life and other obligations.
You also have the ability to choose your work environment. Per diem local travel nurses can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and even non-traditional settings like schools and prisons.
In addition, per diem local travel nurses typically earn a higher hourly rate than regular, full-time nurses. This is because they’re compensated for their flexibility and willingness to work in various locations on short notice.
How to Become a Per Diem Local Travel Nurse
If you’re interested in becoming a per diem local travel nurse, you must first complete a nursing program and obtain a state license. Once you’re licensed, you can start applying for per diem local travel nursing jobs through a staffing agency or directly through healthcare facilities.
You should also have excellent communication skills, be able to adapt quickly to changing environments, and be willing to work in a variety of healthcare settings.
The Future of Per Diem Local Travel Nursing
The demand for per diem local travel nurses is expected to continue to grow as the healthcare industry continues to evolve. With the ongoing nursing shortage, healthcare facilities are relying more on per diem local travel nurses to fill in the gaps left by staffing shortages.
As healthcare facilities continue to expand their services and offer more specialized care, there will be an increased need for per diem local travel nurses who can provide the necessary support and expertise.
Conclusion
Becoming a per diem local travel nurse is a great way to enjoy the flexibility of a nursing career while still maintaining a steady income. With the demand for these nurses continuing to grow, there’s no better time to explore this exciting and rewarding career path.
Benefits of Per Diem Local Travel Nursing | How to Become a Per Diem Local Travel Nurse | The Future of Per Diem Local Travel Nursing |
---|---|---|
Flexibility to work when and where you want | Complete a nursing program and obtain a state license | Expected to continue to grow as healthcare industry evolves |
Higher hourly rate than regular, full-time nurses | Apply for jobs through staffing agencies or healthcare facilities | Increased need for nurses who can provide specialized care |
Opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings | Excellent communication skills and ability to adapt quickly |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between per diem and travel nursing?
Per diem nursing is a short-term nursing job where the nurse is hired to fill in for a shift or staff shortages at a healthcare facility. Travel nursing is a temporary nursing job that requires the nurse to travel to various locations around the country to fill in for staff shortages or to provide specialized care.
How much do per diem local travel nurses make?
The hourly rate for per diem local travel nurses varies depending on their experience, location, and the healthcare facility they’re working for. On average, per diem local travel nurses earn a higher hourly rate than regular, full-time nurses because they’re compensated for their flexibility and willingness to work in various locations on short notice.
What type of nursing jobs can per diem local travel nurses work?
Per diem local travel nurses can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and even non-traditional settings like schools and prisons. They can also work in various departments like ICU, ER, and pediatrics.