How to get used to/deal with the inconsistencies of per diem work

mirandaaa · Jun 26, 2015

Unfortunately that's the way it goes when you're classified with that type of employment.

I would say look for another similar position and see if you can even out your hours between the two places up to full-time hours.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 10, 2015

In addition to an agency position, I have per-diem positions at two hospitals. Between the three, I can usually get full-time hours if I want it.

caliotter3 · Jul 10, 2015

Some agencies will actually cancel a shift for one employee in order to give the work to a more favored employee. If you sense that this may be happening, or if you find yourself just plain getting cancelled too often to meet your employment needs, then you might want to consider finding another employer.

canigraduate · Jul 10, 2015

I have an agency job in Phoenix and I have been consistently cancelled 4/5 shifts since May. Summer is a big time for canceling, as the census usually drops.

If you need more hours, your best bet is to ask around at other agencies to see if there are any local contracts open. Or, you can apply at two or three other agencies and call every day you want to work to see if they have any shifts open.

I gave up and got a FT position at the hospital down the street.

Been there,done that, ASN, RN · Jul 13, 2015

If you are concerned that the cancellations are a reflection on your performance, you must ask your employer. Seems like you would be informed of any complaints.

Consider private duty on a consistent shift with a home care patient.

canigraduate · Jul 13, 2015

Yup. They usually tell you that you have a DNR (do not return) if they are cancelling you for job performance.

BertG77 · Jul 20, 2015

Thanks everyone! Since this posting my shifts have been consistent. I'm grateful, just not used to not knowing when/if I'm going to work. It's getting easier though.

Been there,done that, ASN, RN · Jul 21, 2015

Again, don't take any cancellations personally, unless your agency comes to you with an issue.

It is difficult to not have a set schedule. Know your agency policy as to the timeline when you can be cancelled. I have been called off .. still received 4 hours of pay.

'

If you cant afford a call off ,make sure your agency knows to try to reschedule you elsewhere.

Best of luck, let us know how it's going.

caliotter3 · Jul 21, 2015

Previous post jogged my memory about reporting time pay. If you get to work and then get sent home, you are entitled to reporting time pay, also called 'show up pay' (CA). Check with the EDD reference this. Many employers in CA claim ignorance or just plain refuse to pay it, so you may find yourself dealing with the Labor Board to get your pay.

cockadoodie · Jul 26, 2015

Some agencies will actually cancel a shift for one employee in order to give the work to a more favored employee. If you sense that this may be happening, or if you find yourself just plain getting cancelled too often to meet your employment needs, then you might want to consider finding another employer.

its called ghost shifting, and you are Casper the disappearing ghost.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 27, 2015

Previous post jogged my memory about reporting time pay. If you get to work and then get sent home, you are entitled to reporting time pay, also called 'show up pay' (CA). Check with the EDD reference this. Many employers in CA claim ignorance or just plain refuse to pay it, so you may find yourself dealing with the Labor Board to get your pay.

Your agency should also have info about "show up pay" in your employment agreement with them. Every agency I've worked for would give at least 2 hours' pay if you are not cancelled within a certain time, which is anywhere from 2-4 hours before the start of the shift. You may need to speak up and ask for it though.