Per Diem Options?

[katyq82]

Hello! I just graduated with my ASN, and will be continuing school for my BSN online this fall. I am open minded about my career path, especially in terms of my first job. I'm prioritizing finding a safe and supportive environment for a new nurse, but I want to gain skills too. In my area there are only a couple of hospitals that hire ASN new graduates. I have a job offer from a nursing home that seems like a fantastic environment and I would likely enjoy working there. However, its only 3/4 time and I would like to be working full time. I know that new grads are not generally a good fit for per diem positions, but are there any good options out there where I could pick up 2-3 shifts a month and also possibly work in a different environment to learn new things? Maybe a rehab facility, or another setting? Does that sound feasible? I would like to eventually work in a hospital setting so I like to pick up hours doing something that would strengthen my resume for the future.

Another option would be to turn down the job offer and continue applying to full time jobs, but I don't think I would find a better LTC facility in my area so I would probably wait it out for a hospital based position. I would be afraid to turn down a "bird in the hand"!

Advice welcome, thanks in advance! :)

[Sour Lemon]

Per diem jobs are typically only available to those with at least a year or two of experience. You'd probably have better luck picking up extra hours with your original employer once they get to know you.

I would take the job your being offered for the exact reason you suggest. It's in hand.