As the population continues to age, the demand for healthcare professionals has been growing at a steady rate. PRN (pro re nata, or “as needed”) nursing roles help keep communities staffed during high demands. But, these roles don’t just benefit the facilities, they benefit nurses, too.
Nurses looking to balance their careers and personal lives while also maintaining their income have turned to PRN nursing jobs to provide them the flexibility they deserve.
Let’s take a look at PRN nursing pay rates in Oklahoma, the factors that influence how much you can make, ways you can boost your income further, and the differences in pay between PRN and staff roles.
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PRN Nursing Pay in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, PRN nurses usually make between $30 and $50 an hour. The exact rate depends on a lot of factors, like area of specialization, location, facility type, and experience.
Nurses who work in high-demand specialties like intensive care, emergency medicine, or labor and delivery will usually earn rates on the higher end. The facilities that use PRN nurses are asking for help because they are short-staffed, and they’re willing to pay higher rates to keep patient-nurse ratios safe.
Geography plays a pretty large role in the pay for PRN nurses. Rural facilities struggle to maintain staffing levels at a safe level, so they will often offer higher rates to attract nurses driving from surrounding cities.
On the other hand, areas like Oklahoma City and Tulsa will usually have more shifts available, but at a lower rate because of all of the competition between PRN nurses.
Experience and certifications can also help you make more money as a PRN nurse. Nurses with advanced skills are more likely to land a PRN contract, where they will be guaranteed a certain number of hours, usually at a higher rate.
What Influences PRN Nursing Pay in Oklahoma?
Pay for PRN nursing in Oklahoma is influenced by more than just experience and location. I already briefly mentioned that specialization can increase pay for PRN nurses and help them land more contracts. But, a lot more can influence pay for Oklahoma nurses.
Flexibility also matters significantly. Facilities often offer pay differentials for nurses willing to work unpopular shifts, such as nights, weekends, or holidays.
Facility type also plays a role. Acute care hospitals generally offer higher pay for PRN nurses than outpatient clinics or long-term care facilities, as the work in hospital settings tends to be more demanding.
Lastly, Nurses with extensive knowledge and a proven track record are often chosen for shifts with higher rates or more complex responsibilities.
Maximizing Your Income as a PRN Nurse
PRN nursing offers a lot of opportunities to increase your earning potential, but knowing how to navigate the field is essential.
One of the most effective ways to maximize your income is by accepting shifts during peak demands, like holidays or weekends when pay rates are higher. Nurses who remain flexible and pick up last-minute shifts can also find themselves in high demand which often lands them premium rates.
Another important strategy is asking other PRN nurses which agencies they work for, what their rates are like, and how many available shifts they have. Some nurses work for multiple agencies at a time so they can find the best rates, but I don’t like recommending that because it makes maintaining your schedule a lot more difficult. If the agency you work for doesn’t offer the same rates as other agencies in your area, you should let them know, if they know other agencies are paying more, they may update their rates to stay competitive.
If you’re into traveling, try expanding your working radius into more rural areas within Oklahoma or nearby states. Remember, these areas will usually offer higher rates to convince nurses to make the trip.
PRN Pay vs. Staff Nurse Pay
One of the main advantages of PRN nursing in Oklahoma is its higher hourly rate compared to traditional staff nursing roles. PRN nurses are often brought in to fill immediate staffing gaps, so facilities are willing to pay a premium for their flexibility and availability.
However, staff nurses enjoy the stability of a regular salary and comprehensive benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
While PRN nurses usually earn more on an hourly basis, their lack of benefits can sometimes offset the pay advantage, especially if they are not employed through a W-2 agency. For those seeking financial security, staff nursing may still be preferable, but PRN roles are ideal for those prioritizing higher pay and flexibility
W-2 staffing agencies like Cascade Health Services (shameless plug) offer the best of both worlds. We offer flexibility and benefits, so nurses don’t have to pick between the two.
1099 vs. W-2 Employment: Breaking Down the Pay
The choice between 1099 and W-2 is an important decision for every PRN nurse. Nurses who work as 1099 independent contractors often see higher pay rates, but nurses who work as 1099 contractors need to make 30% more than W-2 employees to make up for benefits.
1099 contractors are responsible for taking out their own taxes and providing themselves with liability insurance, and health insurance, which adds up quickly.
W-2 employment, on the other hand, offers more structure and benefits. A portion of taxes are withheld automatically, which simplifies financial planning. Cascade Health Services provides benefits, like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. When you factor in benefits, W-2 pay is usually the same, or better than 1099 roles.
Benefits of PRN Nursing in Oklahoma Besides Pay
Although pay is the main motivator, PRN nursing in Oklahoma offers more benefits to nurses. One of the most appealing benefits is the flexibility. PRN nurses have the freedom to set their schedules, which helps them balance their personal lives with their work lives.
PRN roles also present more opportunities for professional growth. By working in multiple different facilities you can gain experience and build a more diverse skill set. If you already have a full-time staff role, working extra shifts on a PRN basis can add more money to your pockets without having to fully commit to additional hours.
Full-time Roles, Travel Nursing, and PRN Shifts
Some of the most common questions about PRN nursing are how pay rates compare to travel nursing and whether PRN shifts can be combined with full-time roles. In short, PRN pay is often comparable to travel nursing on an hourly basis, though travel nurses may receive additional perks like housing stipends. PRN shifts can easily complement full-time positions, offering a flexible way to earn extra income.
By understanding the nuances of PRN nursing in Oklahoma, nurses can make informed decisions about their careers and maximize their earnings. For those ready to explore opportunities, Cascade Health Services is here to help with competitive rates, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive team.
