Nurses play a crucial role in healthcare, ensuring patients receive the best care possible. For nursing professionals in Crofton, Maryland, per diem nursing shifts offer a flexible and rewarding way to contribute to this mission. This article will explore the specifics of per diem nursing shifts in Crofton, Maryland, including the various roles available, necessary certifications, and the benefits of signing up through Nursa.
Understanding per diem nursing shifts
Per diem nursing shifts refer to non-regular, as-needed work arrangements where nursing professionals step in to fill shifts in various healthcare settings. This section outlines what these shifts typically entail for different nursing roles, the required licenses to work, and the essential certifications needed.
What per diem shifts entail for RNs, LPNs, and CNAs
Each nursing role has unique responsibilities and expectations during per diem shifts:
- Registered Nurses (RNs): RNs are responsible for comprehensive patient care, including assessments, planning, and implementing treatment. During per diem shifts, they may provide care in hospitals or outpatient settings, acting independently or collaborating with a healthcare team.
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): LPNs support RNs by performing basic nursing duties such as monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and assisting patients with daily activities. In per diem roles, they often fill in at skilled nursing facilities or clinics.
- Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): CNAs provide basic patient care, such as bathing, feeding, and assisting with mobility. Per diem CNAs may work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, or home health settings as needed.
Required licenses for nursing roles
To work in nursing roles in Crofton, specific licenses are mandatory:
- Registered Nurse (RN): RNs must have a valid RN license issued by the Maryland Board of Nursing. This requires a nursing degree and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): LPNs need a valid LPN license from the Maryland Board of Nursing, achieved by completing a practical nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam.
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): CNAs must complete a state-approved training program and pass a competency evaluation to obtain certification.
Recommended certifications and credentials
Additional certifications can improve employment prospects and enhance skill sets for nursing professionals seeking per diem jobs:
- Basic Life Support (BLS): Most employers require BLS certification, as it equips nurses with essential skills to handle emergencies.
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS): Especially important for RNs in critical care settings, ACLS training prepares nurses to manage cardiac arrest and other life-threatening situations.
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS): PALS is beneficial for nurses who work with children and need specialized training in emergency scenarios.
Benefits of using Nursa for per diem shifts
Nursa stands out as a recommended platform for nursing professionals seeking per diem shifts. Here’s why:
- Higher pay rates: Nursa often offers higher pay rates compared to traditional full-time nursing jobs, making it financially attractive for nursing professionals.
- Instant pay with Nursa Direct: Nurses can receive their earnings shortly after completing a shift through Nursa Direct, improving cash flow.
- Flexible scheduling: With Nursa’s marketplace model, nurses have the flexibility to choose when and where they work, fitting employment around personal commitments.
- Variety of facilities: Nursa connects nurses with various healthcare settings, including long-term care, hospitals, clinics, and home health facilities.
- Real-time shift notifications: Nurses receive immediate updates about available shifts that match their skills and preferences, allowing for quick decisions.
- Direct communication with schedulers: Nursa allows nursing professionals to communicate directly with facility schedulers, streamlining the process of securing shifts.
Simple process to sign up with Nursa
Getting started with Nursa is easy and straightforward. Follow these steps to join:
- Add your personal information to create an account.
- Verify your nursing license to ensure eligibility.
- Complete your clinician profile with relevant work experience and specialties.
- Upload essential credentials, such as licenses and certifications.
- Request a shift to initiate a background check and start working.
Living and working in Crofton, Maryland
Crofton, Maryland, offers a range of benefits for nurses seeking flexible shifts. Below is an overview of what to expect in this area.
Why Crofton is great for nurses
Crofton, located between Washington D.C. and Baltimore, has a balanced pace of life, making it an appealing place for nursing professionals. The area boasts:
- Accessibility: Equipped with major highways and public transportation options, Crofton provides convenient access to several healthcare facilities, hospitals, and nearby cities.
- Variety of facilities: Nurses can find ample opportunities working in different healthcare settings, from hospitals to home health, making it easy to find per diem shifts that fit their schedules.
- Community orientation: The supportive community atmosphere encourages professional growth and networking opportunities among nursing professionals.
Amenities for nursing professionals
During off hours, nurses can take advantage of several local amenities:
- Parks and recreational areas: Crofton features parks and trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who seek relaxation after a shift.
- Shopping and dining: The area offers various shopping centers and restaurants, providing a range of options for enjoying meals or shopping.
- Cultural venues: With local theaters, art galleries, and community activities, nurses can immerse themselves in cultural offerings during their time off.
Conclusion
Per diem nursing shifts in Crofton, Maryland, offer a flexible and rewarding way for nurses to work while enjoying the local community. By using platforms like Nursa, nursing professionals can easily manage their schedules and take advantage of higher pay rates. As a nurse, you have the power to shape your career while helping those in need in a town that balances life, work, and leisure effectively.