Disappointed...

heathert_kc · May 17, 2011

The meaning or potential for 'prn' depends on the facility, due to the lack of benefits and paid time off, it sucks... but at some larger facilities and places that have a lot of staff that are part time or in school, etc. you can often work quite a few hours. I would suggest that you just be greatful, a job is a job... since you don't have one right now it is something to put on your resume and help you learn in the meantime. If like the place then just try to be as flexible as you can, get to know the other nurse and after you are trained and everything let them know that you are always looking to pick up extra shifts if they need a day off or if there is a call in. This helps in two ways it makes people like you and shows you are responsible. Even if a real position (part time/full time) doesn't come available right away sometime someone will give up a shift due to school, scheduling conflict, no child care, whatever then once you end up consistantly working one or two of the same shifts every week, you can request to officially change your status. That's how it worked for me, I got a second job (pediatric home health for the company I had been an aid for) and when my first choice job picked up, I slowed down on the other. It took me about 5 months before I was officially full time, but even as prn I often got 30+ hours/ week.

It may not be ideal, but just give it a shot; it doesn't mean that you have to stop looking for other jobs. If you are PRN you are not obligated to maintain certain availablity.