LPN
Every flu season, healthcare systems are overwhelmed by an increase in patients. This can make it more challenging to ensure every patient receives thorough, individualized care and achieves positive health outcomes. PRN nurses (or per diem nurses) can fill these gaps and are an important asset when managing flu season.
Both healthcare facilities and the PRNs themselves can benefit from this relationship. In this article, I will discuss what a PRN nurse is, how they help healthcare during flu season, and how to find a PRN position in your area. In addition, I will share a few tips that may help you stand out for a PRN position.
PRN means “as needed,” or per diem. PRN nursing is a more flexible working arrangement that enables nurses to pick up shifts on a day-to-day basis. PRN nurses don’t commit to a particular schedule, which enables them to pick up shifts as they desire. PRN positions allow the nurse to work in the field, while providing a healthy work/life balance.
During peak flu season, the demand for nurses increases, providing increased shift opportunities for the PRN nurse. In addition to flexibility in the nurse’s schedule, the nurse also receives competitive pay. The higher rate of pay is to assist in compensating for the lack of benefits a nurse receives in a full-time position. If you are looking for flexibility and increased hourly earning potential, PRN nursing may be suitable for you.
Due to their ability to provide additional staffing assistance during flu season, PRN nurses help increase the quality of patient care. Adequate staff-to-patient ratios allow nurses to spend quality time with each patient, ensuring optimal care is provided.
PRN nurses also bring fresh eyes to patient care challenges. Since they are not at the facility all the time, they may be able to provide insight or solutions regular staff might not have thought about.
Lastly, because of better staff-to-patient ratios, PRN nurses assist in preventing burn-out among regular staff members.
Simply performing a Google search for “PRN Nursing Jobs” should give you a list of healthcare facilities looking for PRN nurses in your area. During flu season, many pharmacies also advertise for vaccine nurses to assist in administering flu vaccines. This is a great option for the nurse looking to help out during flu season, but who doesn’t want to work in the hospital setting.
If you are interested in pursuing PRN nursing positions, there are a few things you can do to ensure you stand out to a potential employer. The key to these positions is flexibility. When crafting your cover letter, make it clear that you are flexible to their needs and are able to work a variety of shifts. This includes the availability to work weekends and holidays if applicable to the facility. Employers are more likely to hire you as a PRN nurse if you demonstrate your willingness to be flexible.
Once you’re hired, be sure to build a good rapport and trusting relationship with the facility. They will need to see you as dependable, so it is important to be on time and show up to shifts you committed to. Failure to do so may terminate your working relationship with them and make it harder for you to get another PRN position in the future.
Being a PRN nurse allows healthcare facilities to provide better healthcare during flu season or other times of significant need. In addition to facility and patient care benefits, PRN nurses also benefit from a flexible schedule and increased hourly rates.
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