The term “per diem” originates from Latin roots, meaning “for each day.” In healthcare, it's exactly that: you work when you're needed and get paid for the shifts you take.
Per diem nurses step in to cover staff shortages, vacations, and unexpected absences, moving between units or facilities as demand shifts. Instead of a fixed salary, you're paid for each shift you work. What sets per diem nursing apart is the flexibility it puts in your hands. You choose shifts around your availability. There’s no fixed schedule and no long-term commitments.
If you want real control over your time and work-life balance, per diem work can be a smarter way to build your career.
How are per diem nursing jobs different from others?
Per diem nursing sits in a category of its own: unlike permanent roles built around consistency and benefits, or travel nursing assignments that immerse you in a new location and team for weeks at a time. Per diem work is on‑demand, shift‑by‑shift nursing, built around flexibility first.
Here’s how it compares:
Permanent vs per diem nursing
Nurses in permanent jobs typically have consistent schedules, guaranteed hours, and access to benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and more.
Per diem nurses choose a different tradeoff. Instead of predictability, you get control over your schedule, your workload, and often the settings you work in. Many nurses love being able to shape work around life (not the other way around).
Neither option is “better.” They just serve different priorities and seasons.
Travel vs per diem nursing
Travel nursing usually means committing to short‑term assignments that last weeks or months, often in a new city or state.
Per diem nursing is typically more local and bite‑sized. You can work shifts at multiple facilities, stay close to home, and avoid longer contracts if that’s not your thing.
Think: flexibility without the relocation.
How does per diem differ from PRN?
Short answer? It usually doesn’t.
Per diem nursing and PRN (pro re nata) are often used interchangeably, and in most cases, they mean the same thing. Both terms refer to nurses who work on an as-needed basis rather than holding a full-time schedule.
Like per diem roles, PRN positions allow you:
- Pick up shifts based on availability
- Work without long‑term commitments
- Fill staffing gaps during busy or high‑demand periods
- Location
- Specialty
- Experience level
- Facility type
The main difference is mostly language. “Per diem” is more commonly used by staffing agencies and healthcare organizations, while “PRN” is often used within hospitals and clinical settings. The work itself is very similar.
Knowing this can make your job search easier and open up more opportunities.
How do per diem nursing jobs work with an agency?
Booking per diem shifts through a healthcare staffing agency is designed to be simple and fast. Here is how it typically works:
Apply and connect with a recruiter: You start with an application, where you submit your resume, licenses, and basic personal information. Once connected with a recruiter, they’ll help match you with per diem nursing jobs that match your experience and preferences.
Complete credentialing requirements: Next comes credentialing, which ensures you meet all compliance standards. This may include verifying your nursing license, certifications, immunization records, background checks, and work history. While this step can take some time upfront, it makes it easier for you to pick up shifts once you’re fully cleared.
Finish onboarding and training: After credentialing, you complete onboarding. This can involve orientation tasks, facility-specific requirements, or system training, depending on where you’ll be working.
Pick up shifts: This is where per diem really shines. Most agencies let you view and claim shifts through a recruiter, an online portal, or a mobile app. You decide when and where you want to work, no long-term commitment required.
Agencies handle the logistics so you can focus on choosing shifts that fit your life.
How much do per diem nurses make?
On average in the US, per diem nurses make around $33 an hour, though rates can vary.
Per diem nurses are often paid more per hour than full-time staff nurses, largely because they don’t receive traditional benefits like health insurance or paid time off. Instead, their compensation is designed to reflect immediate staffing needs.
Pay can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Location
- Specialty
- Experience level
- Facility type
One major perk of per diem nursing is the potential to increase earnings by picking up additional shifts. Since schedules are flexible, you can work as much or as little as you choose, making it easier to boost your income when needed.
What are the advantages of per diem nursing?
Per diem nursing appeals to nurses for lots of reasons, especially those who want flexibility without giving up earning power.
Flexibility and schedule control
One of the biggest advantages of per diem nursing is the ability to choose when and where you work. With no requirement to commit to a fixed schedule, you have full control over your time. This flexibility supports a better work-life balance, allowing you to adjust your workload as needed or take time off without requesting PTO.
Higher hourly pay
Per diem nurses often earn higher hourly rates compared to full-time staff. Since these roles typically don’t include benefits, facilities offer increased pay to attract nurses who can fill shifts quickly and on short notice.
Variety of settings
Per diem nurses have the opportunity to work in different healthcare environments, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and more. This variety can help you build new skills and keep your work experience dynamic.
Networking and career growth
Per diem roles give you hands-on experience in various units and patient populations while also allowing you to work across multiple facilities. This not only helps you expand your skill set and discover new areas of interest, but also connect with a wide range of healthcare professionals, opening doors to future opportunities and career advancement.
More control over your schedule
Per diem nursing gives you the ability to accept or decline shifts based on your needs. This level of control can reduce burnout and help you avoid overcommitting.
Quicker access to work and pay
Because per diem roles are designed to fill immediate staffing needs, the hiring and onboarding process is often faster than traditional roles. This means you can start working and earning sooner.
Supplemental income opportunities
Many nurses use per diem work to supplement a full-time job or transition between roles. It’s a flexible way to increase income without taking on a long-term commitment.
Tips for succeeding as a per diem nurse
Succeeding as a per diem nurse requires more than clinical skills. It also takes organization and adaptability. Here are a few tips from our recruiters to help you make the most of your per diem experience:
- Stay organized: Keep your licenses and certifications up to date and easily accessible. Having everything ready to go makes it easier to pick up shifts quickly and avoid delays in scheduling.
- Be flexible and adaptable: Each facility may have different workflows and expectations. Being open to new environments and able to adjust quickly will help you succeed and build a strong reputation.
- Communicate clearly: Stay in regular contact with your recruiter or staffing coordinator and respond promptly to shift opportunities. Clear communication can help you get priority for available shifts.
- Arrive prepared: Show up early, review any provided information, and be ready to step in. Bringing essentials like your badge and supplies can help you feel more confident in new settings.
- Make a positive impression: Even if you’re only at a facility for a short time, professionalism matters. Being reliable and proactive can lead to repeat opportunities and strong references.
- Build relationships: Take the time to connect with staff and supervisors. Networking can open doors to preferred placements or even long-term opportunities.
- Know your limits: It can be tempting to pick up as many shifts as possible, but maintaining a healthy balance is important. Avoid burnout by setting boundaries and choosing shifts that align with your schedule and energy level.
Get started with Favorite today
If you’re ready to take control of your schedule, per diem nursing with Favorite is a great place to start.
Whether you’re looking to supplement your income or gain experience in new settings, we have flexible opportunities across a variety of healthcare facilities.
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