License
LPN
Hourly Avg.
Hourly Avg. Range
$
34.56
$
32.01
-
$
48.82
Shift Type
Per Diem
Date Posted
February 1, 2026
Valid Through
March 24, 2026

Share this job

Job Description

Join our growing network of dedicated and experienced licensed practical nurses (LPNs) finding high-paying per diem job opportunities in

Des Moines

,

Iowa

.

LPNs provide basic nursing care and treatment to patients under the supervision and guidance of nursing supervisors or physicians. With Nursa, practical nurses can work in a variety of settings, including skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), long-term care (LTC) centers, assisted living facilities (ALFs), hospitals, home healthcare services, physicians’ offices, and more.

LPN responsibilities:

Although specific job duties will vary depending on your working location, the responsibilities of an LPN in any healthcare setting generally include the following:

  • Monitor patient health by checking vital signs, including pulse rate, blood pressure, and body temperature
  • Monitor patient diet, intake, and output
  • Provide basic patient care and comfort, including changing bandages, repositioning, and helping with activities of daily living, such as bathing and eating
  • Assist patients with mobility, transfers, and positioning
  • Administer medications as prescribed and as permitted by state licensure and facility policy
  • Assist with oxygen therapy and monitor oxygen delivery as ordered
  • Perform or assist with clinical tests, such as phlebotomy duties and urinalysis, as permitted by the state's scope of practice
  • Administer vaccinations as permitted by state and facility regulations
  • Remove sutures or staples as permitted by the state's scope of practice
  • Monitor patients after treatments and document changes in condition
  • Collect patient information and record medical histories using electronic health/medical record (EHR/EMR) systems, as required
  • Document patient care and maintain up-to-date health records
  • Observe and report changes in a patient's condition to registered nurses (RNs), advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), or physicians
  • Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with privacy requirements
  • Educate patients and their families on care routines, treatments, and next steps as appropriate
  • Offer emotional support to patients and their families
  • Prepare patients for discharge or transfer by completing care tasks, handoff reports, and patient education
  • Assist in supervising or training certified nursing assistants (CNAs) or nurse aides
  • Assist with patient transport within or between care areas
  • Maintain safety standards, including fall prevention practices, proper equipment use, and compliance with facility procedures
  • Follow hygiene and infection control procedures
  • Monitor supply levels and assist with inventory management

LPN qualifications:

The following qualifications include requirements for LPN licensure and capabilities typically expected by healthcare facilities posting shifts on the Nursa platform:

  • Complete a state-approved practical nursing educational program (high school diploma or equivalent required for program admission)
  • Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN)
  • Hold a current and unencumbered practical nurse license in the state of practice
  • Maintain license by fulfilling continuing education requirements
  • Maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification as required by facility or role
  • Keep immunization records up to date, as required by state and facility policies
  • Pass required federal, state, and local background checks
  • Demonstrate excellent clinical skills, including the ability to take accurate vital signs, proficiently administer medications, and perform basic medical procedures safely and competently
  • Show strong attention to detail and observational skills to identify subtle changes in a patient's health
  • Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively communicate with patients, families, and the healthcare team
  • Provide compassionate and reliable care with sensitivity and respect for patients
  • Work effectively both independently and as part of a team
  • Manage time effectively to handle multiple tasks and prioritize patient needs
  • Apply strong organizational and problem-solving skills
  • Adapt quickly to different healthcare settings, units, teams, patient populations, and workflows
  • Maintain physical stamina to stand for long periods, bend, stoop, and perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting and moving patients
  • 1+ years of experience as an LPN is preferred for per diem roles, though no minimum experience is required

Additional certifications may be required depending on the type of facility, and specific role, including wound care, gerontology, rehabilitation, hospice or palliative care, IV therapy, pharmacology, or long-term care.

Working as a PRN LPN on the Nursa platform can offer opportunities to pick up shifts in various settings, maintain a flexible schedule, and supplement income while supporting work-life balance.

LPN benefits:

LPNs who pick up shifts with Nursa enjoy more than flexibility—they gain real advantages that make every shift easier and every payday faster.

  • Get paid instantly with Nursa Direct: Access your earnings as soon as your shift is verified.
  • Stay covered with Hooray Health: Explore affordable supplemental coverage for peace of mind between shifts.
  • Train confidently with ShiftReady: Complete facility-required training and skill refreshers before your next assignment.
  • Simplify taxes with Keeper Tax: Automatically track deductions and manage write-offs throughout the year.

These benefits are designed to help you take control of your work, your time, and your financial future.

Get started in minutes:
With Nursa, you decide when, where, and how often you work. Joining takes only a few minutes—no long applications, no staffing agency paperwork.
  1. Create your free account: Download the app or sign up online.
  2. Upload your licenses and certifications: Verify your credentials once.
  3. Complete free background checks: Meet basic facility vetting requirements quickly.
  4. Add your payment information: Set up your preferred payout method to get paid fast.
  5. Make your profile stand out: Highlight your nursing experience and skills.
  6. Request shifts: Browse openings near you and start earning fast.

About Required LPN License:

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are in high demand throughout the United States. With PRN nursing jobs, LPNs have the luxury of choosing when and where they want to work while earning competitive hourly wages.

About Location:

Iowa, nicknamed the "Hawkeye State," is a U.S. Midwest state known for its miles of agricultural land, natural beauty, and friendly people. Nursing professionals love working per diem shifts here due to its ample job opportunities, competitive pay, and impressive work-life balance.

*This job posting is representative of the type of shifts available in this area on the Nursa platform.

Pick Up a Job Today

Nursa is always looking for LPN nurses to pick up per diem shifts

Join Nursa

GO BEYOND A SINGLE JOB

Choose Multiple LPN Shifts on Your Schedule

Nursa isn't just about finding a job; it's about crafting your ideal work schedule by selecting shifts. Once you create a Nursa profile, you will experience the convenience of scheduling shifts in real-time.

Enjoy learning more about the beautiful city of Des Moines and how living and working as a nursing professional in this city might bring you high-paying rates.

Nursing professionals can find an array of job opportunities in Iowa. Discover what this state offers nurses and nursing assistants, including high-paying, flexible PRN nursing jobs.

Average LPN
Pay in Des Moines, Iowa

$
42.52
/hour
$
23.01
Low
$
43
Average
$
50
High

To become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and maintain licensure, a candidate must complete a state-approved educational program, pass a standardized test for LPNs, and fulfill other state-specific requirements.

Pick Up a Job Today

Nursa is always looking for LPN nurses to pick up per diem shifts

Join Nursa

Table of Contents

PRN LPNs Pick Up High-Paying Jobs in Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa, is the capital and largest city of the state, surrounded by several smaller cities such as West Des Moines, Urbandale, and Ankeny. With a population of over 217,000, Des Moines offers a vibrant community, diverse culture, and opportunities for growth and advancement. One of the growing fields in Des Moines is the demand for PRN (as-needed) Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).

Many factors contribute to the increasing demand for LPNs in Des Moines. If you are an LPN looking for PRN jobs, Des Moines is definitely a city you should consider.

What Is Unique About PRN Nursing in Des Moines?

PRN (as-needed) nursing jobs are different from full-time or part-time positions. PRN nursing allows nurses to work on a flexible schedule, choosing shifts and locations that best fit their needs. This type of nursing is perfect for those who want to balance work with personal life and those with other commitments. PRN nursing also offers a higher hourly pay rate compared to regular nursing jobs

Nursa Can Help You Find PRN LPN Jobs

Nursa connects healthcare facilities with qualified nurses for as-needed work. Through Nursa, LPNs can find various PRN job opportunities in Des Moines and nearby cities. Nursa allows nurses to easily search, apply, and manage their work on a flexible schedule. This makes it easier for LPNs to find jobs.

A Typical Day for an LPN in Des Moines

LPNs provide direct patient care and support other medical professionals. Their duties may vary depending on the specific healthcare setting they work in. However, a typical day for an LPN in Des Moines may include assisting patients with daily activities, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and providing wound care. LPNs in Des Moines usually work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, home health, and other healthcare facilities. In Des Moines, licensed practical nurses often work alongside CNAs (certified nursing assistants) and RNs (registered nurses).

Why Do LPNs Love Living and Working in Des Moines?

LPNs in Des Moines enjoy an excellent work-life balance thanks to the city's affordable cost of living and various recreational activities. Des Moines is often ranked as one of the best cities in which to live and work in the United States. It offers a strong job market, a growing economy, and a welcoming community. LPNs who live and work in Des Moines can benefit from the outdoor recreational activities, cultural events, and amenities the city offers.

Some Common Healthcare Settings for LPNs in Des Moines

Below are some of the common healthcare settings for LPNs in Des Moines.

  • Hospitals: Hospitals are the largest facilities for LPNs in Des Moines. They provide specialized medical care to patients, and LPNs work with other healthcare professionals to assist in patient care.
  • Nursing Homes: LPNs in nursing homes assist in administering medications, monitoring patients' health, and providing personal care to residents.
  • Clinics: Clinics offer a wide range of healthcare services to patients. LPNs in clinics work with physicians and other healthcare professionals.
  • Home Health: LPNs may also work in a home health setting, providing healthcare services to patients in their homes. This allows patients to receive care and treatment in the comfort of their own homes.
  • Hospice: Hospice facilities provide end-of-life care to patients with terminal illnesses. LPNs in hospice work closely with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals to provide compassionate end-of-life care.

As mentioned earlier, LPNs can work in various healthcare settings in Des Moines.

Affordable Activities Nearby for LPNs in Des Moines

Here are ten affordable activities nearby that you can enjoy in Des Moines:

  1. Visit the Des Moines Art Center: This center features a vast art collection worldwide. Admission is free.
  2. Explore the Downtown Farmers' Market: Every Saturday, from May to October, Des Moines hosts the Downtown Farmers' Market.
  3. Hike the Des Moines Riverwalk Trail: The Des Moines Riverwalk Trail stretches 2.3 miles along the Des Moines River.
  4. Take a Tour of the Iowa State Capitol: The Iowa State Capitol is a national historic landmark and the seat of the Iowa government. It offers free tours where visitors can learn about the state's history and view beautiful architecture.
  5. Visit the Blank Park Zoo: The Blank Park Zoo is home to over 800 animals worldwide. Admission is affordable and a perfect place to enjoy a day with family and friends.
  6. Experience Adventureland Park: Adventureland Park is a theme park for all ages. It's a popular destination for weekend outings, and admission is affordable.
  7. Relax at Gray's Lake Park: Gray's Lake Park offers a serene, relaxing environment, with a 1.9-mile trail around the lake, picnic areas, and a beach.
  8. Attend a Concert or Event at the Des Moines Civic Center: The Des Moines Civic Center hosts many events yearly. Tickets are reasonably priced and a great way to spend an evening in Des Moines.
  9. Shop at the Historic East Village: The Historic East Village is a charming neighborhood with boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries. It's the perfect place to shop, dine, and discover something new.
  10. Enjoy a Day at the Iowa State Fair: The Iowa State Fair offers a variety of activities, entertainment, and delicious food at an affordable price.

Living and working in Des Moines doesn't have to be all about work – having a good work-life balance is also essential. Luckily, Des Moines offers plenty of affordable activities that LPNs can enjoy during their free time.

Pick Up PRN Jobs with Nursa in the Area

Des Moines, Iowa, offers an excellent opportunity for LPNs looking for PRN jobs. Through Nursa, LPNs can easily find and manage PRN jobs in Des Moines and nearby cities while enjoying the vibrant community and affordable activities this city offers. With a perfect balance of work and play, per diem LPNs in Des Moines can have a fulfilling and enjoyable career. Pick up PRN jobs with Nursa here.

Jobs By City in this State

Briefcase purple icon

Pick Up a Job Today

Find per diem PRN job opportunities in your area. High paying CNA, LPN and RN and many more licences are available now.

Join Nursa
Building Purple Icon

Post Your Jobs Today

Facilities who use Nursa fill 3 times as many open per diem shifts, on average, compared to trying to fill the shifts themselves.

Post Jobs
Nursa Shifts And Jobs Mobile App Decorative Image

Don't miss your chance to pick up high-paying shifts on Nursa

The Nursa platform empowers nursing professionals to earn more by picking up flexible per diem shifts at nearby healthcare facilities.
Sign up and start picking up shifts today.

Continue
Close Icon
Apply Now