PRN RN Jobs in Durham, North Carolina, Offer High-Pay
The healthcare industry is constantly developing and growing, making it one of the most stable and high-demand fields in the job market. One profession that continues to be in high demand is that of a Registered Nurse (RN). With the rise of chronic illnesses and an aging population, the need for RNs is at an all-time high. In addition to full-time and part-time positions, there is also the option of PRN RN jobs. PRN, which stands for "pro re nata" (as needed), refers to temporary on-call or per diem positions that offer higher pay rates in exchange for a flexible schedule. This article will focus on PRN RN jobs in Durham, North Carolina, exploring the average income, job duties, qualities required, expectations for first-time PRN RNs, how to find these jobs, and other surrounding cities offering PRN opportunities.
What Is the Average Salary for RNs in Durham?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual pay for RNs in Durham, North Carolina, is $69,920 as of May 2020. This is slightly higher than the national average of $75,330. The BLS also reports that the top 10% of RNs in Durham earn an average of $86,940, while the lowest 10% earn an average of $51,410. In terms of hourly rates, the average for RNs in Durham is $33.60, with the highest 10% making an average of $41.80 per hour and the lowest 10% earning an average of $24.72 per hour. It is important to note that these numbers can vary based on education, years of experience, and type of healthcare facility.
Typical Job Duties of an RN:
The job of an RN is multifaceted and can alter depending on the healthcare setting and patient population. However, some typical job duties apply to most PRN RN positions. Some of these duties include:
- Providing direct patient care: This includes administering medications, monitoring vital signs, performing treatments, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
- Collaborating with the healthcare team: RNs often work alongside licensed practical nurses (LPNs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs), and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and coordinated patient care.
- Documentation and record-keeping: RNs are responsible for accurately documenting patient information such as vital signs, medications administered, treatments provided, and progress notes. This information is crucial for continuity of care and legal purposes.
- Patient education: RNs play a vital role in educating patients and their families on health-related topics, medication regimens, and self-care techniques to promote overall wellness and prevent further health complications
What Qualities Should a Good PRN RN Possess?
Certain qualities and skills are essential to excel in a PRN RN role. These include:
- Flexibility and adaptability: PRN RNs must be able to handle changes in work schedules and patient assignments without getting overwhelmed. They should be able to adapt to new environments, patients, and procedures quickly.
- Strong communication skills: As mentioned earlier, RNs work closely with a healthcare team, and effective communication is critical in delivering quality care to patients. Good communication skills also help build rapport with patients and their families.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving ability: In a PRN RN role, one is expected to encounter unexpected situations that need quick thinking and decision-making skills. A good PRN RN must be able to analyze information, identify problems, and develop practical solutions.
- Attention to detail: One small error in administering medication or documenting patient information can have serious consequences. A good PRN RN must be detail-oriented and have the ability to follow protocols and procedures precisely.
RNs often work along with licensed practical nurses and Certified nursing assistants.
Another essential quality for PRN RNs is the ability to work well in a team. As mentioned earlier, RNs work alongside other healthcare professionals, such as LPNs and CNAs. Teamwork and cooperation are essential for providing quality patient care and achieving positive outcomes. A good PRN RN must be able to communicate effectively, respect their colleagues' opinions, and work together to achieve common goals.
Your First Per Diem RN Job: What Should You Expect?
As a first-time PRN RN, feeling anxious or unsure about what to expect is normal. Here are a few things that you can expect from your first per diem RN job:
- A variable work schedule: PRN RNs are not guaranteed a set number of weekly hours or shifts. Your work schedule will depend on the facility's needs and can vary from week to week. Be prepared for some weeks to have more shifts while others may have none.
- Higher pay rates: PRN RNs often earn more per hour than full-time or part-time RNs. This is because they do not receive benefits such as paid time off, health insurance, or retirement plans. Employers often compensate for these benefits by offering a higher base pay rate.
- Opportunities for professional growth: PRN RN jobs give you the freedom to explore different healthcare settings and patient populations. This can help you gain valuable experience and enhance your skills, making you a well-rounded RN.
How to Find Per Diem RN Jobs in Durham?
One of the best ways to find PRN RN jobs in Durham is through online job search engines such as Nursa. Nursa is a platform that helps connect healthcare facilities with qualified nurses, including PRN RNs. To find PRN RN jobs in Durham using Nursa, follow these steps:
- Create a profile: The first step is to make an account with Nursa and fill out your profile. This includes your education, experience, and availability.
- Browse job postings: Nursa's platform allows you to browse PRN RN job postings in Durham and the surrounding areas. You can apply to multiple positions at once, making it easier to land a job.
- Get hired: Once you have applied, the healthcare facility will review your application and interview if you meet their requirements. If successful, you will be offered a PRN RN position.
RNs in Durham might also find jobs in the surrounding area
- Raleigh: Raleigh, located about 25 miles east of Durham, is home to several healthcare facilities, including Duke Raleigh Hospital, WakeMed Raleigh Campus, and UNC REX Healthcare. These facilities offer a variety of PRN RN job opportunities.
- Chapel Hill: Located about 13 miles south of Durham, Chapel Hill is home to prestigious healthcare institutions such as the UNC Medical Center and UNC Children's Hospital. These facilities often have PRN RN positions available.
- Cary: Cary, located about 21 miles west of Durham, is home to WakeMed Cary Hospital, which offers a range of PRN RN positions.
Conclusion
PRN RN jobs in Durham, North Carolina, offer higher pay rates, flexibility, and opportunities for professional growth. RNs interested in these positions should possess qualities such as flexibility, strong communication skills, critical thinking ability, and attention to detail. They can find these jobs through online platforms such as Nursa, which connects healthcare facilities with qualified nurses. RNs in Durham can also find PRN opportunities in neighboring cities such as Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Cary. Whether working as a full-time, part-time, or PRN RN, the most important thing is finding a job that aligns with your personal and professional goals and makes you feel fulfilled in your career as a nurse.
