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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a per diem nurse, you\u2019ll have to jump into new facilities with little orientation, so it\u2019s crucial to make sure you feel comfortable making decisions on your own and can lean on your previous experience when faced with difficult situations. \u201cYou want to make sure that you\u2019re comfortable working independently and have strong clinical skills,\u201d Leah shares. \u201cYou often will be given minimal orientation; therefore, you should be ready to work and be able to fill that gap.\u201d 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
With modern technology, it\u2019s 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<\/a>, 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<\/a> you want and pass on the ones you don\u2019t. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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\u2019re current. Updating any expired licenses or certifications before applying can make the process quicker, allowing you to pick up per diem shifts sooner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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\u2019s 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. \u201cYou want to make sure that this is something that truly aligns with you and your lifestyle,\u201d Leah shares. When I say start slow, I am suggesting that you consider working per diem shifts along your current job.\u201d 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As a full-time nurse, it\u2019s 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\u2019re picking up per diem shifts. Establishing positive relationships with managers and coworkers can help set you apart, making it more likely you\u2019ll get called back for future shifts<\/a>. \u201cConnect with your managers. Get to know them. Work to the best of your ability,\u201d Leah advises. Doing all of these things increases the likelihood that you\u2019ll be added to a facility\u2019s 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\u2019s marketplace. Being on a facility\u2019s favorites list can ensure a more consistent schedule and solidify your status as an excellent per diem nurse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Watch the full video below! <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n3. Get your credentials in order <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Start slow <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Build relationships <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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