Leah Coaxum, medical-surgical per diem nurse, transitioned from full-time nursing to per diem nursing three years ago. When she started, few people had made the transition, so she had to figure out how to be a full-time per diem nurse on her own. During that time, Leah learned some best practices that can help make the transition seamless so you can thrive in your per diem nursing journey.
Tips for transitioning to per diem nursing
1. Assess your readiness
As a per diem nurse, you’ll have to jump into new facilities with little orientation, so it’s crucial to make sure you feel comfortable making decisions on your own and can lean on your previous experience when faced with difficult situations. “You want to make sure that you’re comfortable working independently and have strong clinical skills,” Leah shares. “You often will be given minimal orientation; therefore, you should be ready to work and be able to fill that gap.” Your role as a per diem nurse is to bridge gaps on the team, and in order to bridge those gaps effectively, you have to be confident in your skills.
2. Do your research
With modern technology, it’s easier than ever to pick up shifts on your terms. Before jumping into per diem shifts, research the best platforms out there to find one that works for your needs. Medely offers per diem shifts in 40+ markets across the country in a variety of positions. With the easy-to-use mobile app, you can search for jobs based on your experience directly from your phone or computer at any time, or enable notifications to be alerted when relevant shifts are available in your area. Medely offers the ability to work on your schedule, so there are no minimum or maximum shifts required. Simply pick up the shifts you want and pass on the ones you don’t.
3. Get your credentials in order
In order to seamlessly transition from full-time work to per diem work, make sure that your credentials and certifications are up to date. In order to pick up shifts with Medely, our team checks your credentials to ensure they’re current. Updating any expired licenses or certifications before applying can make the process quicker, allowing you to pick up per diem shifts sooner.
4. Start slow
Transitioning from full-time nursing to per diem nursing is a major decision. For some people, like Leah, per diem nursing is the best thing that’s ever happened to them. However, others may thrive under an established schedule and the consistent environment of a full-time job. Leah shares that it’s important before leaving a full-time job to make sure that you can excel working per diem shifts and are ready to take on a new challenge. “You want to make sure that this is something that truly aligns with you and your lifestyle,” Leah shares. When I say start slow, I am suggesting that you consider working per diem shifts along your current job.” This allows you to decide whether or not picking up per diem shifts is actually right for you before you quit your full-time job.
5. Build relationships
As a full-time nurse, it’s easier to connect with your coworkers and staff because you’re with them every day. However, as a per diem nurse, you need to make extra effort to connect with staff at the facilities where you’re picking up per diem shifts. Establishing positive relationships with managers and coworkers can help set you apart, making it more likely you’ll get called back for future shifts. “Connect with your managers. Get to know them. Work to the best of your ability,” Leah advises. Doing all of these things increases the likelihood that you’ll be added to a facility’s favorites list on Medely. The next time a facility posts a shift, they can send it directly to you to pick up before being sent out to the rest of the nurses in Medely’s marketplace. Being on a facility’s favorites list can ensure a more consistent schedule and solidify your status as an excellent per diem nurse.
Watch the full video below!
Make the transition with Medely
Per diem nursing can be a great option for nurses looking to explore flexibility in their career. With a plan in place, transitioning to a per diem nurse doesn’t have to be complicated. Medely is here to help make the journey as simple as possible. Ready to take the next step to becoming a per diem nurse? Download the Medely app today and see what’s available in your area!
