Switching to a PRN (Pro Re Nata, or “as needed”) nursing role can be a rewarding change, offering more flexibility, diverse work environments, and more control over your schedule. However, preparation and a strategic mindset are key to thriving in this type of role. Here’s how to navigate the shift like a pro:
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Find a Reliable Staffing Agency
PRN nursing usually starts with finding a reputable staffing agency that aligns with your goals. A good agency can help eliminate the administrative side of PRN staffing. This gives you easy access to shifts that fit your skills and availability.
Not all staffing agencies are the same. There are a lot of differences between working for a W-2 and a 1099 staffing agency. Here’s what you should look for in a staffing agency:
- A large variety of healthcare facilities in your area like hospitals, clinics, rehab centers, etc.
- User-friendly scheduling tools, like apps, or a website that lets you book shifts.
- Transparent pay rates and shift details.
- 24/7 support to help with last-minute questions or issues.
W-2 agencies like Cascade Health Services check all of these boxes. Working for a staffing agency that meets these standards helps simplify scheduling, making it easier for you to focus on patient care instead of the logistics. Partnering with the right agency can help make sure you won’t miss out on the best opportunities.
Stay on Top of Your Credentials
Healthcare facilities require PRN nurses to have active certifications and licenses. Some states may give nurses a grace period to renew their certifications and licenses, but that typically doesn’t apply to PRN nurses. Keeping everything up to date makes sure that you will always be able to pick up shifts.
Essential certifications for PRN nurses:
- Basic Life Support (BLS) – A must for most healthcare roles.
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) – Essential for emergency and critical care roles.
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – Required for working with children.
- Specialized certification – Like TNCC or NIH Stroke Scale depending on your focus.
Pro tip: Use reminder apps, spreadsheets, or rely on your agency’s credential management tools (Like HR platforms or apps) to track expiration dates. Some agencies have reimbursement programs to help you keep everything up to date.
Get Comfortable with Change
PRN nursing involves working at different facilities, sometimes even within different specialties, which will require you to adapt to new teams, policies, and workflows quickly. While it can be unpredictable, this variety is also what makes PRN nursing so exciting.
Tips for embracing change:
- Be proactive–review facility policies before your shift starts.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions so you can orient yourself quickly in the new environment
- Keep a flexible mindset–each experience is a chance to build your skill set.
Adapting well can open doors to more opportunities and make you a go-to resource for facilities needing extra support.
Network with Other PRN Nurses
PRN nursing can sometimes feel isolating since you’re constantly moving between facilities. That’s why building a support network of fellow PRN nurses is essential. They can offer advice, recommend shifts, and share some of their strategies for adapting to new environments.
Where to network:
- Join local and national nursing associations like the American Nurses Association or local PRN groups.
- Connect with colleagues at agency meet-and-greets or healthcare conferences.
- Participate in online forums or social media groups specifically for PRN and travel nurses.
Having a network ensures that you’re always in the loop and gives you a group to turn to for guidance when facing challenges.
Plan Your Schedule Wisely
One of the biggest draws of PRN nursing is the flexibility, but it requires careful time management to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The freedom to say “ yes” to every shift can be tempting since pay rates are generally higher than rates for staff nurses, but overloading your schedule will lead to exhaustion.
Tips for scheduling success:
- Use scheduling apps (like the one provided by your agency) to organize your shifts and keep track of upcoming assignments.
- Set clear boundaries with your availability–block off time for personal commitments and rest. Make sure you communicate with your PRN staffing manager.
- Prioritize shifts that offer better pay and experience overtaking every available shift.
- Plan your downtime in advance to recharge, especially after a series of long shifts.
By balancing your work schedule with your personal time, you’ll enjoy the flexibility that PRN nursing offers without feeling overwhelmed.
Understanding Your Pay and Benefits
PRN nursing often offers higher hourly wages than staff positions, but it’s important to understand how benefits, taxes, and overtime work.
Things to Consider:
- Overtime Pay: Some agencies offer higher pay rates after a certain number of hours a week.
- Taxes: I mentioned that there are differences between W-2 and 1099 agencies and taxes are one of the biggest differences. As a W-2 employee, your employer will help take taxes out of your paycheck automatically. If you work for a 1099 agency you will have to handle taxes completely on your own. If you go the 1099 route, it’s a good idea to hire a financial advisor so you aren’t surprised at the end of the year.
- Access to benefits: PRN roles may not always include healthcare benefits or paid time off, but some agencies like Cascade Health Services offer benefits to full-time employees. 1099 Agencies will never offer benefits.
Understanding the financial side of PRN nursing ensures you can maximize your income while planning for the future.
Transitioning with Confidence
Transitioning to PRN nursing is an exciting step toward more flexibility and diverse experience. With the right agency partnership, up-to-date credentials, adaptability, and networking, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the challenges and enjoy the freedom PRN nursing provides. Managing your schedule and finances wisely will ensure long-term success and satisfaction.
Ready to dive into PRN nursing? Cascade Health Services is here to help you every step of the way—connecting you to the best shifts and empowering you to transition smoothly into your new role.
