per diem nursing shifts in Mendenhall, Mississippi
Per diem nursing shifts in Mendenhall, Mississippi offer nursing professionals a way to work on their own terms. Per diem nursing jobs allow nurses to accept shifts as needed, rather than committing to a standard full-time schedule. Clinicians willing to fill PRN shifts help facilities cover staffing gaps at short notice. These flexible options can lead to higher pay rates, variety in clinical settings, and a better balance between work and personal life.
overview of per diem nursing shifts
Per diem shifts can vary from a single shift to multiple days in a row. In Mendenhall, shifts may range from 8 to 12 hours or even weekend blocks. Facilities often call on per diem clinicians to cover staff absences, seasonal demand or special projects. A nurse working per diem must be ready to adapt quickly to different unit routines, electronic health record systems, and patient populations.
Taking on PRN shifts can:
- Boost weekly income by filling last-minute call-outs
- Allow greater control over personal schedules
- Expose nurses to varied facility types and patient needs
- Help clinicians build experience in new specialties
shift length and scheduling
Shifts often last 8, 10 or 12 hours. Mornings, evenings, nights and weekends are all common. Some nurses pick only night shifts to earn shift differentials. Others choose weekdays to match family or school schedules. PRN nursing jobs in Mendenhall let you set availability weeks or months in advance.
pay rates and incentives
Per diem nurses usually earn higher hourly rates than those in full-time roles. Facilities add shift differentials for nights and weekends. In a rural market like Mendenhall, per diem rates can range from $28 to $45 per hour, depending on experience and specialty. Holiday pay and mileage reimbursement for home health shifts may further increase take-home pay.
what per diem shifts entail by license type
registered nurse responsibilities
RNs handle patient assessments, medication administration, care planning and coordination. In per diem shifts, RNs may float between med-surg, telemetry or intensive care units. They must review care plans quickly and liaise with multi-disciplinary teams to maintain continuity of care. RNs also supervise CNAs and LPNs when assigned to the same unit.
Why this matters: Flexibility with multiple patient care systems and protocols sharpens critical thinking. RNs can add new skills and build a varied resume.
licensed practical nurse responsibilities
LPNs focus on basic nursing care under RN supervision. Their duties include taking vital signs, providing wound care, assisting with activities of daily living and administering select medications. In per diem roles, LPNs may cover skilled nursing facilities, assisted living centers or home health visits.
Why this matters: LPNs gain exposure to different care models and patient populations. This experience can support career growth or exams for RN licensure.
certified nursing assistant responsibilities
CNAs provide hands-on care such as bathing, dressing, feeding and mobility assistance. They document patient observations and report changes to licensed staff. Per diem CNAs often work in long-term care or rehabilitation centers, helping facilities maintain safe staffing levels.
Why this matters: Working PRN gives CNAs a chance to refine bedside manner and improve efficiency in care tasks. It also strengthens team communication skills.
required licenses for nursing roles in Mississippi
registered nurse licensing requirements
To work as an RN in Mississippi, you must hold an active Mississippi RN license from the Mississippi Board of Nursing. Requirements include:
- Graduation from an accredited nursing program
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Maintaining continuing education (CE) contact hours every licensing period
- Renewing your license biennially
Why this matters: Licensing ensures you meet safety and competency standards to provide quality patient care.
licensed practical nurse licensing requirements
LPNs need an active Mississippi LPN license. The criteria are:
- Completion of an approved LPN program
- Passing the NCLEX-PN exam
- Maintaining CE contact hours as mandated by the Board
- Renewing the license every two years
Why this matters: Proper licensing grants legal authority to perform delegated nursing tasks.
certified nursing assistant licensing requirements
CNAs must register with the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry. To qualify, you need:
- Completion of a state-approved CNA training course
- Passing the CNA competency exam
- Maintaining registry status through periodic in-service education
Why this matters: Registry status confirms basic patient care skills and protects vulnerable populations.
recommended certifications and credentials
basic life support (BLS)
BLS certification is often required for all nursing roles. It covers adult, child and infant CPR, use of automated external defibrillators (AED), and relief of choking. Many per diem shifts mandate BLS to respond to emergencies.
advanced cardiac life support (ACLS)
ACLS focuses on recognizing and managing cardiac arrest, stroke and other life-threatening cardiovascular events. It’s essential for RNs working PRN in critical care, emergency departments or telemetry units.
pediatric advanced life support (PALS)
PALS certification equips nurses to handle pediatric emergencies such as respiratory distress or shock. It is critical for RNs and LPNs taking PRN shifts in pediatric units or pediatric home care.
additional specialty credentials
Depending on the clinical area, you may also pursue:
- Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC)
- Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN)
- Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification (CWOCN)
Why these matter: Specialized credentials broaden job opportunities and may lead to pay premiums on per diem nursing jobs.
why use nursa for per diem nursing shifts
Nursa connects clinicians directly with facilities seeking coverage. It acts as a marketplace for per diem nursing jobs, making it simple for RNs, LPNs and CNAs to find PRN shifts in Mendenhall, Mississippi. Here are key advantages:
- Higher pay rates than many traditional full-time roles
- Instant pay with Nursa Direct, offering daily payouts
- Schedule control lets you choose shifts that fit your life
- Varied facility types including hospitals, long-term care, assisted living and home health
- Real-time shift alerts keep you updated the moment new shifts open
- Direct communication with facility schedulers to clarify duties or ask questions
With Nursa, you skip recruiter fees and agency markup. You negotiate rates and accept shifts with a tap on your smartphone. You earn more per hour and control when and where you work.
how to get started with nursa
Signing up on Nursa takes minutes. The process is straightforward and transparent:
- Add personal information and contact details in the app or web portal
- Verify your nursing license directly with the Mississippi Board of Nursing
- Complete your clinician profile, including primary specialty and shift preferences
- Upload essential credentials like BLS, ACLS and CNA registry card
- Request a shift to trigger a facility-driven background check
Once approved, you can start browsing per diem nursing shifts in Mendenhall, Mississippi. The faster you complete your profile, the sooner you can accept high-paying PRN shifts.
living and working in Mendenhall
why mendenhall is ideal for per diem nurses
Mendenhall offers a small-town pace with access to major health systems nearby. Facilities range from skilled nursing centers to regional hospitals within a 30-minute drive. Per diem nurses find ample opportunities to fill shifts across different care settings.
The community size allows easy commutes and quick staffing responses. You spend less time in traffic and more time focusing on patient care or personal interests.
access to healthcare facilities
Nurses can pick shifts at:
- Jefferson Davis County Hospital (acute care)
- Long-term care and rehabilitation centers
- Assisted living communities
- Home health agencies serving rural areas
This range lets clinicians gain experience in multiple environments, from emergency response to chronic care management.
housing and commute
Housing costs in Mendenhall stay below the national average. Renting a two-bedroom apartment or house starts around $800 per month. Commutes often take under 15 minutes, even when traveling between town and outlying clinics.
Fuel and maintenance costs remain low, boosting your effective hourly earnings when you pick PRN shifts outside standard hours.
local amenities and things to do
On days off, nursing professionals can explore local parks, community centers, and dining spots. Popular activities include:
- Picnicking or fishing at Pearl River Wildlife Management Area
- Walking the trails at Jefferson Davis County Recreation Department
- Dining on Southern comfort food at family-run diners
- Visiting local farmers markets for fresh produce
food and dining
Mendenhall’s small restaurants serve up homestyle cooking. Try catfish plates, Brunswick stew, or grill specialties. Nearby Brandon and Pearl offer bistros, cafes, and fast-casual options within a 20-minute drive.
outdoor recreation
The region around Mendenhall includes rivers, lakes and forests. You can kayak on the Pearl River or hike at nearby state parks. Weekend camping trips to Ross Barnett Reservoir or Bienville National Forest are within easy reach.
community and culture
Local events include county fairs, music nights at community halls and craft shows. Smaller crowds mean community organizers rely on volunteers—per diem nurses often join event first-aid teams or health screening booths.
Church groups and civic clubs welcome clinicians who want to connect locally, share health knowledge, or support community programs.
next steps for your per diem nursing career
Per diem nursing shifts in Mendenhall, Mississippi give you the freedom to shape your career. By securing required licenses, adding key certifications and using Nursa’s platform, you can maximize earnings and build varied clinical experience. On your days off, enjoy the ease of living in a close-knit community, quick commutes and local amenities tailored to rural life. Download Nursa today to start picking up high-paying PRN shifts and take control of your nursing schedule.
