The Role of LPN Temp Agencies in the Changing Healthcare Landscape

Dec 19, 2024

If you’re an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse), you’ve probably noticed that the healthcare world is shifting–fast. From staffing shortages to changes in patient care needs, the industry isn’t the same as it was just a few short years ago. As facilities scramble to keep up, LPN temp agencies are stepping in to connect skilled nurses with the right opportunities. 

But what exactly do LPN agencies do, and why are they becoming more important? Let’s take a look into how LPN temp agencies are helping both nurses and healthcare providers in this new landscape.

Why the Demand for LPNs is Growing

Healthcare facilities–hospitals, nursing homes, and rehab centers–are seeing a surge in patients. At the same time, staffing shortages are hitting really hard. Burnout among nurses, an aging population, and unpredictable events like the COVID-19 pandemic have created an urgent need for flexible staffing solutions in healthcare. 

That’s where LPN temp agencies shine. They act as a bridge, helping facilities stay fully staffed while giving LPNs the chance to work on their own terms. Whether you’re looking for extra shifts or want to explore new specialties, temp agencies offer opportunities that weren’t as accessible in the past.

How LPN Temp Agencies Support Healthcare Facilities

  1. Filling Staffing Gaps Quickly

Healthcare facilities can’t afford to have unstaffed shifts–it directly affects patient care. Temp agencies provide a reliable pool of qualified LPNs who can step in quickly to fill open shifts, whether it’s due to call-ins, vacations, or surges in patient volume. 

  1. Providing Flexibility for Facilities

Staffing needs can change in an instant, especially in today’s unpredictable environment. Temp agencies allow facilities to adjust their workforce without overcommitting to permanent hires. This flexibility helps facilities maintain high standards of care while staying within budget. 

Hiring can be extremely expensive, and hiring nurses for temporary staffing problems isn’t the best solution. When facilities use staffing agencies properly, they can save a lot of money by not hiring permanent staff for a temporary problem.

  1. Specialized Staffing for Niche Areas

Some healthcare settings, like long-term care or rehabilitation centers, need LPNs with specific skills or certifications. Temp agencies help match specialized LPNs with facilities that need them the most. A great agency will look for a nurse who fits the facility’s needs perfectly. 

What LPNs Gain From Working With Temp Agencies

LPNs who work for temp agencies are exposed to a lot of opportunities that most staff nurses don’t get.

More control over your schedule

If you’re like most nurses, you’re probably tired of the rigid schedules. Temp agencies are a game changer. As an LPN working through an agency, you can choose shifts that fit your lifestyle. Do you want to work weekends only? How about only working on weekday mornings? It’s no problem–you call the shots. 

Many LPNs use temp agencies to help balance personal commitments, such as childcare or continuing their education.

Opportunities to Earn More

In most cases, temp positions offer a higher hourly rate than permanent roles, especially during high-demand times or in understaffed areas. Plus, you can pick up extra shifts to boost your income without committing to overtime in a full-time role.

Most of the time, when you’re filling in at a facility you are there because they are understaffed, so they’re willing to pay more for last-minute help. You will also see shifts with bonus pay, like during holidays or late at night. Picking up these types of shifts will help you make even more money in less time.

A Chance to Explore New Settings

Working through a temp agency lets you test the waters in different environments–like home health, long-term care, or outpatient clinics. This can help you figure out what kind of nursing you enjoy the most without being locked into one job. 
Pro tip: If you’re thinking about switching specialties, temp work is a great way to get hands-on experience before making the leap.

Career Growth Without Burnout

LPN temp work allows you to take breaks when you need them helping you avoid the burnout that’s so common in full-time roles. You can work hard during busy periods and then take time off to recharge. I’ve even seen nurses who will work 7 days a week and then take the entire next week off.

How LPN Temp Agencies Are Shaping the Future of Healthcare.

LPN temp agencies aren’t just filling shifts–they’re transforming the way healthcare staffing works. Here’s how they’re leading the charge in today’s evolving landscape:

Supporting Work-Life Balance for Nurses

With burnout on the rise, healthcare facilities are under pressure to provide better work-life balance for their staff. Temp agencies make that easier by giving LPNs the freedom to create their own schedules. This not only keeps nurses happy but also ensures better patient care.

Meeting the Needs of an Aging Population

The growing demand for elder care means more facilities need skilled LPNs for roles in nursing homes and home health. Temp agencies are stepping up to connect nurses with these opportunities, helping fill the gaps in long-term care staffing.

Adapting to Crisis Situations

We’ve seen how quickly healthcare systems can become overwhelmed during emergencies like pandemics. Temp agencies provide a crucial safety net, sending LPNs wherever they’re needed, often on short notice.

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion

Temp agencies also play a role in promoting diversity within the healthcare workforce by giving more nurses– especially those from underrepresented backgrounds–access to a variety of job opportunities. 

Choosing the Right LPN Temp Agency

Not all agencies are the same, so it’s important to find one that aligns with your career goals. Here are some things to consider.

Reputation and reviews: Look for agencies with positive feedback from other nurses and the facilities they work with.

Shift variety: Make sure the agency offers shifts in facilities and specialties you’re interested in.

Scheduling tools: Agencies with easy-to-use apps or online platforms make it easier to manage your schedule.

Support and communication: Choose an agency that provides ongoing support and keeps you informed about new opportunities.


At Cascade Health Services, we specialize in matching LPNs with flexible, rewarding opportunities that fit their career goals. With a wide range of shifts and specialties, we’re here to help you take control of your career.

LPN Temp Agencies: Your Gateway to Flexibility and Opportunity

The healthcare landscape is changing fast, and LPN temp agencies are playing a key role in helping facilities stay fully staffed while giving nurses more control over their careers. If you’re an LPN looking for flexibility, higher pay, or a way to explore new specialties, working with a temp agency could be exactly what you need.

Ready to see what’s out there? Cascade Health Services has hundreds of shifts waiting for skilled LPNs like you. Reach out today, and let us help you find the perfect fit for your career!

What we do

Allied Healthcare & Nurse Staffing Services

Founded in 1988, Cascade Health Services is a leading healthcare and nurse staffing agency in the United States. More than 2,500 nurses, nurse aides and allied health professionals work with Cascade across the nation. We are hiring RN, LPN, LVN, CNA, CMA, CMT and other healthcare professionals for immediate Travel, Contract and PRN jobs in Nursing Homes, Long Term Care Centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Assisted Living, Rehabilitation Centers and Hospitals.