Is 2 Per Diem Jobs unrealistic?

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Specializes in Hospice, Palliative Care, Public Health.

Hi all,

I am a 3rd (of 6) semester BSN student and in the process of looking for jobs to keep me busy and in practice for the summer have been accepted at 2 different hospitals for per diem (float pool) nursing assistant positions. They both have their up sides and down sides. The bottom line is, I accepted both positions with the intention of figuring out which I like better. Since I make my schedule (within their minimums of course) I figure its do-able, but thought I would see what experienced folks thought. I worked out a mock schedule for myself and think it looks ok on paper.

I cant say I don't have a couple of doubts about it, but definitely don't feel comfortable telling one "thanks but no thanks" as I feel what makes or breaks a job is the people I would work with and the system I'd work for - neither of which I know at this point. Have any of you worked per diem at more than one place at a time? Is this done, or is this something that would stop people in their tracks if I told them this is what I am doing? If I like one significantly more than the other and quit it when school starts again in the fall, am I at risk of burning bridges? Any input is appreciated. Thanks!

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I'm not sure my experience would be representative for everyone else...but I held two per diem jobs the summer through the end of fall semester of my last MSN year, and then 3 per diem jobs the last (spring) semester. I actually took the 3rd job because even with two casual positions, I wasn't working as much as I wanted (despite being a full-time student!).

Ironically, after accepting the third per diem position, we lost a few nurses at one of my other jobs, so I was suddently more in demand...but all in all it was nice, I was able to work as much as I wanted with free time for midterms/finals when I needed it.

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Specializes in Critical care/ER, SRNA.

I would say it is not unreasonable at all. It will give you more options if census at one place fluctuates and doesn't need you very much for a while. Plus, if you hate one of the jobs, you will have the other one to fall back on. I think you will be just fine!!:lol2:

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Some people in my graduating class did that. I think it's a great idea. You'll have more of an idea what you want to do and where you want to go when you graduate. Good luck!!

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Specializes in Hospice, Palliative Care, Public Health.

Thanks for the responses. Its wonderful to have one less thing to worry about. Good thing I have a good calendar, so I can keep good track of where I'm going to be on any given day.

Anyone else have any comments on working 2 per diem jobs? Advice?

Sarah

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