Starting out Per Diem

[Eric1233]

I have zero experience in dialysis, but was wondering is it possible to start out as an RN in acute or chronic dialysis on a per diem basis. If so, which would be the better choice acute or chronic.

[Tish88]

In my opinion, you would need to have experience in dialysis before becoming a per diem staff member.

In order to feel comfortable with dialysis, you are looking at 6 months to 1 year of full time working in dialysis.

I don't think anyone would hire you per diem without any experience.

[Eric1233]

I agree, maybe I can get a part time position perhaps? The problem is the training!! Most companies will not want to spend much on training for a per diem nurse. I want to work about 1-2 shifts per week, maybe more. I work full time as an Nurse Educator in a correctional facility M-F 7am-3pm. I have always been interested in dialysis. The prison I work at has a 25 bed dialysis unit. I might try to get some training there, but they only use registry. There is talk of making it availble to state employees. Any other ideas would be welcomed. I could just go back to tele or step down nursing, but thought dialysis would be interesting and specialized. Thanks for the reply.

[Tish88]

Most companies want you to be full time to receive training since it is so extensive and it takes so long to train.

[Valerie Salva, BSN, RN]

Most companies want you to be full time to receive training since it is so extensive and it takes so long to train.

I agree.

[Eric1233]

I agree.

I figured as much, thank you for the heads up. I have not spoken to any of the companies in my area. There are quite a few jobs openings listed for acute and chronic (granted for full time). If there are any RN who did start out PT or Per Diem, please respond. I would like to hear about your experiences.