Per diem nursing is a type of temporary employment that involves picking up shifts on an as-needed basis. Healthcare facilities use per diem nurses to fill in staffing gaps or cover shifts when full-time staff are sick or otherwise unavailable. Per diem nursing offers a unique work experience with the opportunity to earn above-average hourly wages. These wages may even exceed those of other registered nurses (RNs) with the same education and credentials. In this article, we will delve into the world of per diem nursing and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
Is Per Diem Good for Nurses?
Per diem nursing can be a great option for nurses who are looking for flexibility in their work schedule. Per diem nurses can choose their own hours and work as little or as much as they want. This allows them to pick up the shifts they are able to work based on their schedule and lifestyle. Per diem nursing also offers the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings, including acute care facilities, long-term acute care hospitals, emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, or urgent care. Per diem nurses are also found in many other health settings, including but not limited to; rehabilitation centers, mental health facilities, public safety agencies (police), public health departments, military units, and more.
What Does Travel Nurse Per Diem Mean?
Travel nurse per diem refers to the daily allowance paid to travel nurses to cover expenses incurred while on assignment. This allowance is intended to cover meals, lodging, and incidental expenses. Travel nurses are generally paid higher hourly rates than staff nurses. Assignments also typically last between 8 and 26 weeks, according to Travelnursing.org, but the average is usually 13 weeks. Travel nursing offers a unique work experience with the opportunity to earn above-average hourly wages. These wages may even exceed those of other registered nurses (RNs) with the same education and credentials.
How Much Do Remote Nurses Make in Florida?
The average hourly pay for a remote nurse in Florida is $33.32 per hour, according to ZipRecruiter. While ZipRecruiter is seeing hourly wages as high as $52.16 and as low as $21.63, the majority of remotework from home nurse wages currently range between $26.44 (25th percentile) to $38.46 (75th percentile) across the United States. The estimated total pay for a remote nurse is $105,055 per year in the United States area, with an average salary of $94,899 per year.
What Are the Cons of Per Diem Nursing?
Although per diem nursing comes with many perks, it may not be the right option for everyone. Some potential drawbacks to per diem nursing include:
- Less job security: Because per diem nurses work on an as-needed basis, there may be times when there are fewer assignments to choose from, or when the scheduled assignment gets canceled with little to no notice.
- Limited or no benefits: Many per diem nursing positions do not offer health insurance, retirement, or other benefits.
- Less opportunity for advancement: Because you are not part of the hospital staff, you may have less opportunity for advancement than if you were a full-time nurse.
Why Do Per Diem Nurses Get Paid More?
Per diem nurses are often paid a higher hourly rate than staff nurses. This is because hospitals and other facilities are willing to pay more for nurses who are available on an as-needed basis. Per diem nurses are also responsible for their own taxes, health insurance, and other benefits, which can add to their overall compensation.
Do Travel Nurses Pay Taxes on Per Diem?
Travel nurses are responsible for paying taxes on their per diem payments. However, travel nurses may be able to claim a tax home deduction if they meet certain criteria. This deduction allows travel nurses to deduct expenses related to maintaining a home while working away from home.
What Is the Difference Between Per Diem and Travel Nursing?
Per diem nursing involves picking up shifts on an as-needed basis, while travel nursing involves working short-term assignments in different healthcare facilities that are in need of temporary staff. While per diem nurses can choose their own hours and work as little or as much as they want, travel nurses are generally required to work a set number of hours per week.
Why Are Travel Nurses Paid So Well?
Travel nurses are generally paid higher hourly rates than staff nurses. This is because hospitals and other facilities are willing to pay more for nurses who are available on an as-needed basis. Travel nurses are also responsible for their own taxes, health insurance, and other benefits, which can add to their overall compensation.
What City in Florida Pays Nurses the Most?
According to ZipRecruiter, the city in Florida that pays nurses the most is Miami, with an average hourly pay of $37.50 per hour. Other cities that pay above-average wages for nurses include Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville.
Which State Pays Nurses the Most?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California is the state that pays nurses the most, with an annual mean wage of $120,560. Other states that pay above-average wages for nurses include Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Alaska.
Can Per Diem Nurses Call in Sick?
Yes, per diem nurses can call in sick. However, because per diem nurses work on an as-needed basis, calling in sick may affect their future job opportunities. It is important for per diem nurses to communicate with their employers as soon as possible if they are unable to work a scheduled shift.