Per diem help

[PediatricRNTX]

Is there a difference in per diem and prn? Is there a minimum amount you have to work? Do you ask for higher hourly pay if youre per diem? Thank!

[LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN]

Per diem and PRN are the same; depending on the facility, each has requirements of their own; it's best to check with the facility and/or the jobs description.

[RNperdiem, RN]

It all varies by workplace. There is no standard prn/perdiem. Usually there is some minimum amount you have to work, often pay is standardized, and work hours are not guaranteed.

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

Per-diem and PRN are the same thing.

Scheduling guidelines, pay rates, etc. are all very facility specific so we can't give you a definite cover-all answer. But in general:

Most Per-Diem positions require a minimum scheduling commitment, meaning you have to make yourself available for X number of hours/shifts each pay period. There are also often weekend/holiday requirements to be met as well. On the other hand, the facility does not guarantee you a single hour of work. It does seem like a lopsided relationship, doesn't it?

However, salary rates for Per-Diems are usually (not always) higher than that of permanent staff. Hourly rates are also set at a flat rate or rates based on level (e.g., Per-Diem I, Per-Diem II, etc.), so the nurse with 10 years' experience will usually earn the same rate per hour as a Per-Diem II position as the nurse with 2 years' of experience.

Your facility's HR department will have the most accurate answers to these questions.