per diem pay

153 Posts

Specializes in RN/Hematology/Oncology/Long-termcare/SNF.

I am amazed at the difference in pay for a per diem nurse! I almost cried when I went to my first interview as an RN 3 years ago at a long term care facility. I was offered a $1 more an hour than I was making as an LPN. I had to start my career in long term care due to the fact that I was a new grad with no acute care experience. Anyway, a series of events led me to run from where I was working because I valued my license which was in jeopardy. The best decision I mad in my nursing career thus far. I then went into the office care setting. I was offered 26 an hour. Still not what I considered to be a good salary for an RN. I ended up leaving there because it wasn't a good fit and the computer system was much to advanced for me.

Long story short, I decided to give per diem nursing a whirl. I have been able to hold onto insurance provided by the state after I lost my last job 2 years ago. This allowed me to pursuit this career choice. I was apprehensive at first, knowing I would venture into facilities with new people ect.

However, the pay was substantially more. I am making $34 and was just told about a job that pays $41. Holy cow I feel so very thankful. All the years "9" I spent killing myself to get through nursing school have finally paid off. It almost feels to good to be true. I am now valued in my role in each facility go work at. The last two jobs almost caused me to leave the nursing field because I felt my clinical skills were lacking.

I am so thankful and encourage other nurses who are not happy as a staff member to give per diem nursing a try.