PRN Nursing Jobs in Nevada: Ultimate Guide [2024]

Want to learn more about per diem nursing jobs in the state of Nevada? Find out why and how RNs, LPNs, & CNAs pick up PRN jobs in the Silver State.

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas? This adage is not always true. However, you can gamble on Nevada being an ideal place for your nursing career. Keep reading to learn more about PRN nursing jobs, average salaries, the cheapest cities to live in, and more.

Welcome to the wild and wonderful world of nursing in the Silver State, Nevada! Beyond its glitzy reputation lies a land of breathtaking landscapes, diverse communities, and boundless opportunities for healthcare professionals. Join us as we explore the unique nursing journey in the heart of the American West.

With a population of approximately 3,177,772, Nevada offers a unique blend of urban excitement and rural charm. As a nurse or nursing assistant in this state, you'll discover many opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the healthcare landscape.

NV's healthcare scene features a range of facilities, from bustling metropolitan hospitals to remote clinics serving tight-knit communities. This diversity ensures that healthcare professionals, including Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), and Patient Care Technicians (PCTs), can find their niche and flourish.

The Best Healthcare Centers in Nevada

Are you looking for Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU) or Emergency Room (ER) jobs for nurses in Nevada? Or perhaps Progressive Care Unit (PCU) or Operating Room (OR) nursing jobs? Look no further! We've compiled a list of some of the best healthcare centers across Nevada, including hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, offering various nursing job opportunities. These healthcare institutions are renowned for their exceptional care, cutting-edge facilities, and career growth prospects for nurses.

• Renown Health System: Located in Reno, this prominent healthcare system is renowned for its comprehensive medical services, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to providing high-quality patient care to the Northern Nevada region.
• Sunrise Health System: Situated in Las Vegas, it is a leading healthcare system recognized for its state-of-the-art medical facilities and a broad spectrum of healthcare services, catering to the diverse healthcare needs of the Southern Nevada community.
• Dignity Health: A faith-based nonprofit healthcare system in Nevada, it is committed to delivering exceptional medical care while upholding its compassion and community service values.
• Northern Nevada Health: This healthcare network based in the Northern region of Nevada is known for its dedication to delivering quality medical services and enhancing the health and well-being of the local community.
• Valley Health System: This well-respected healthcare network is known for its dedication to delivering a wide range of healthcare services, including family medicine, obstetrics, women's health, dentistry, internal medicine, ear, nose, and throat, optometry, pediatrics, and behavioral health. 
• Boulder City Hospital: A community hospital serving Boulder City, this facility offers opportunities for dedicated nurses.
• Carson Tahoe Health: It's a comprehensive healthcare system with multiple job openings in Carson City. The system is known for providing patient-centered care, focusing on medical excellence and compassionate service.
• Medicare: This federal health insurance program covers eligible adults aged 65 and older and younger individuals with disabilities. It helps cover medical expenses such as hospital stays, doctor's visits, and prescription drugs for eligible beneficiaries in the state.
• Battle Mountain General Hospital: This critical access hospital in Battle Mountain offers a supportive work environment for nurses.
• Larkin Health System: Distinguished by its commitment to delivering innovative medical solutions, this system prioritizes the local community's well-being through personalized and accessible care.

These healthcare centers in Nevada are excellent places to work and provide opportunities for nurses to influence the welfare of their local communities significantly. Whether you're a seasoned nurse or just starting your career, these institutions offer diverse options to nurture your skills and advance your profession.

See Also: How Long Does It Take to Become a Pediatric Nurse?

Become a Nurse in Nevada

Allow us to guide you through the essential steps to kickstart your career and get a nursing license in Nevada. Your first decision will be to choose between two types of nursing licenses: a practical nursing license or a registered nursing license.

Practical nursing programs tend to last one year and get their students ready for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Once graduates pass this exam, they attain their nursing licenses, enabling them to work as licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

The most common pathways to becoming an RN include pursuing an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN). ADN programs typically last around two years, while BSN programs usually take about four years to complete. Graduates from either of these programs can then sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

It's worth noting that RNs with ADNs usually earn more than practical nurses but generally less than RNs holding BSNs. You can turn to the Nevada State Board of Nursing for guidance and valuable resources to help you navigate the licensing process and meet the state's requirements.

If you're leaning towards obtaining a BSN degree, keep reading for information on the top nursing programs available in Nevada.

Best BSN Nursing Programs in Nevada

Across the country, BSN programs consistently exhibit the highest initial NCLEX pass rates, with the national average reaching 82.32 percent in 2022. That same year, the BSN programs in Nevada distinguished themselves by achieving even more impressive NCLEX pass rates. Here’s a list of some of the best nursing schools in Nevada: 

Source: Report 4 – Jurisdiction Program Summary of All First-Time Candidates Licensed in All Jurisdictions

Now you know which are the top programs to get you approved by the Nevada Board of Nursing. Click here to look up the complete list of approved nursing programs to reach your Nevada nursing license. 

What Is a Patient Care Tech?

A Patient Care Technician is a vital healthcare team member, crucial in providing direct patient care and support. PCTs, also called nursing assistants or nurse aides, work under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses. Their primary responsibility is to assist with the day-to-day care of patients, ensuring their comfort, safety, and well-being.

PCT jobs are in demand in Nevada due to the state's growing healthcare needs. PCTs operate in various healthcare environments, encompassing hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare agencies. PCTs perform tasks such as taking vital signs, bathing and dressing patients, assisting with mobility, and providing primary medical care.

How Much Do Nurses in Nevada Make?

Understanding the compensation and cost of living landscape is essential for nurses considering a career in Nevada.

While Nevada's minimum wage is $10.50 per hour, nurses enjoy significantly higher earnings. Registered Nurses in Nevada typically earn an impressive average hourly wage of $45.64, making nursing an attractive and financially rewarding profession. This wage surpasses the state's minimum wage and highlights the value placed on nursing expertise.

To put RN income into perspective, single adults must make at least $17.02 per hour working full-time to cover basic living expenses in Nevada (based on the MIT cost of living calculator). Nurses, particularly RNs, comfortably exceed this benchmark, ensuring a stable and comfortable standard of living for themselves and their families, as seen in the following income averages for Nevada:

• RN salary: $96,310
• LPN salary: $63,910
• CNA salary: $41,110 

It's crucial to recognize that these income figures can fluctuate based on variables such as experience, geographic location within Nevada, and the particular healthcare institutions where nurses or nursing assistants work. Below, we present a table outlining the average annual earnings in various cities across the state:

Table created based on data from the MIT living wage calculator and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Some of the highest-paying cities for nurses working in Nevada include Las Vegas, Henderson, Paradise, Reno, and Carson City. 

How Many Nurses Work in Nevada? 

Nevada's healthcare system relies on the dedication and expertise of its nursing workforce, a vital component of the state's healthcare infrastructure. As we delve into the landscape of nursing in Nevada, it's essential to understand the numbers that drive this profession. With a growing population and evolving healthcare needs, the state has seen a steady rise in the number of nurses contributing to the well-being of its residents. Let's explore the current figures that shed light on the significant presence of nurses in the Silver State.

• RN jobs in Nevada: 23,970
• LPN jobs in Nevada: 3,170
• CNA jobs in Nevada: 7,480

Cheapest Cities in Nevada

Much like compensation varies across regions, Nevada also experiences significant variations in living wage requirements. Below, we detail the hourly income necessary for a single adult to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in different parts of the state, starting with the most economically accessible cities:

Source: Table created with data from the MIT living wage calculator

How to Apply for Insurance in Nevada

Private insurance coverage is essential for some healthcare professionals, including those with per diem nursing jobs or remote RN positions in Nevada. While the state offers various insurance options, navigating the process can seem complex. Here's a straightforward guide to help you get started:

• Determine your needs: Assess your insurance needs, considering factors like healthcare coverage, dental and vision care, and any additional benefits required for your per diem or remote RN job.
• Health Insurance Marketplace: For those who don't have access to employer-sponsored coverage, Nevada has a Health Insurance Marketplace where you can explore and purchase health insurance plans that suit your needs. Visit the Nevada Health Link website to browse available plans and determine if you qualify for subsidies.
• Medicaid and CHIP: Should your earnings dip beneath a specific limit, you could qualify for Nevada's Medicaid or Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Check your eligibility and apply through the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services.
• Remote RNs and multi-state coverage: If you work remotely as an RN and frequently travel between states, discuss your coverage needs with an insurance expert. Multi-state insurance plans may be necessary to ensure coverage while working in different locations.

Take the time to research and choose the best insurance options that align with your specific needs and circumstances in Nevada.

Nevada's Climate: From Deserts to Mountains

A remarkable diversity of climates marks Nevada's expansive landscape, each offering a unique experience for those living and working in different state regions. From the arid deserts to the mountainous terrain, Nevada's climate can vary significantly depending on your location. Let's take a closer look at what to expect in some key cities:

• Gardnerville: Situated in western Nevada near the Sierra Nevada mountains, Gardnerville enjoys a high desert climate with warm summers and cold winters.
• North Las Vegas: Located in the southern part of the state, North Las Vegas shares the hot desert climate typical of the Las Vegas metropolitan area, with scorching summers and mild winters. This city offers easy access to the entertainment and amenities of Las Vegas while providing a slightly quieter and more suburban atmosphere.
• Amargosa Valley: Located in southern Nevada, Amargosa Valley is characterized by its hot desert climate, with scorching summers and mild winters.
• Caliente: In eastern Nevada, Caliente encounters a high desert climate characterized by balmy summers and mild winters, making it an excellent spot for year-round outdoor activities.
• Eureka: Eureka, a charming town in the central part of the state, sees a semi-arid climate with warm summers and cold winters, offering a taste of the Nevada high desert.
• Fallon: Positioned in western Nevada, Fallon experiences a high desert climate marked by scorching summers and chilly winters and is known for its agricultural activities.
• Lovelock: In north-central Nevada, Lovelock experiences a high desert climate featuring pleasant summers and chilly winters, making it an ideal place for stargazing.
• Hawthorne: Located in western Nevada near Walker Lake, Hawthorne enjoys a high desert climate, with hot summers and cold winters, in a picturesque lakeside setting.

With such climatic diversity across Nevada's cities, the state offers something for everyone, whether you prefer the arid beauty of the desert or the refreshing mountain air. It's essential to consider the climate when choosing your work location and residence in the Silver State.

Fun Facts about Nevada

Nevada, often associated with the glitz of Las Vegas, holds a treasure trove of intriguing, fun facts:

• The Sagebrush State: Nevada's official state nickname is "The Silver State" thanks to its rich mining history, but it's also known as "The Sagebrush State" because of the extensive sagebrush-covered desert terrain.
• Area 51: Located in the Nevada desert, Area 51 is a top-secret US military facility shrouded in mystery and the subject of countless conspiracy theories.
• Extraterrestrial Highway: State Route 375 in Nevada, near Area 51, has officially become the "Extraterrestrial Highway" due to numerous reported UFO sightings.
• No state income tax: One of the few states without a state income tax, Nevada attracts residents and businesses looking for tax-friendly environments.
• Legalized gambling: Nevada was the first state to legalize gambling in 1931, paving the way for the famous Las Vegas Strip.

These fun facts add depth to Nevada's rich history, unique landscapes, and intriguing allure beyond the glitzy lights of Las Vegas.

Nevada: Things to Do across the State

Nevada offers diverse activities and attractions extending far beyond the famous Strip. Whether you find yourself in Austin, Spanish Springs, Silver Springs, Sun Valley, Virginia City, or other charming Nevada towns, there's no shortage of experiences to discover.

• Austin: This historic town in central Nevada beckons outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities to explore the nearby Toiyabe National Forest.
• Spanish Springs: Situated in the Reno-Sparks metropolitan area, Spanish Springs boasts golf courses, shopping centers, and the stunning nearby Sparks Marina Park.
• Silver Springs: Visit the picturesque Lahontan State Recreation Area for boating, fishing, and picnicking by the scenic Lahontan Reservoir.
• Sun Valley: Enjoy the area's natural beauty with hiking trails, parks, and proximity to the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains.
• Virginia City: Step back to the 1800s in this well-preserved historic mining town. Explore saloons, take a historic train ride, and immerse yourself in the Old West ambiance.
• Reno: Known as "The Biggest Little City in the World," Reno offers vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and outdoor adventures, including skiing in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains.
• Lake Tahoe: A few minutes away from Reno by car and offering unparalleled beauty, Lake Tahoe is a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, hiking, water sports, and more.
• Carson City: Nevada's capital city, Carson City, is rich in history and offers attractions like the Nevada State Museum and the Nevada State Capitol.
• Elko: Immerse yourself in cowboy culture at the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering and explore the stunning Ruby Mountains nearby.
• Las Vegas: While known for its entertainment and nightlife, Las Vegas also offers natural wonders like Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and hiking in nearby parks.
• Boulder City: Visit Hoover Dam, take a paddlewheel boat tour on Lake Mead, and explore the quaint charm of this historic town.
• Ely: Discover the Nevada Northern Railway Museum and explore the unique Great Basin National Park with its renowned Lehman Caves.

Nevada's diverse cities and regions provide various activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and historical exploration. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, there's something for everyone in the Silver State.

Find Your First Shift in Nevada

With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and a growing demand for healthcare professionals, Nevada offers a promising start for nurses embarking on their careers. Whether you enjoy the excitement of Las Vegas, the tranquility of the mountains, or the rich history of mining towns, Nevada has a place for you. 

Discover the endless opportunities, competitive compensation, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of its residents. Your nursing journey begins here—start your adventure in Nevada today.