In the field of nursing, everyone is looking for the same thing: more flexibility and work-life balance. Weekend registered nurse jobs stand out as a great opportunity for nurses who want to balance their work life with their personal commitments. Some Registered Nurses (RN) pick up weekend shifts through PRN agencies for extra income, more flexibility, or as a way to avoid working weekdays altogether.
Let’s take a look at the benefits and some of the drawbacks of weekend nursing shifts.
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Why So Nurses Choose Weekend RN Jobs?
Weekend nursing shifts can offer an easy way to balance your work and personal life. Most RNs who work in weekend roles, do so to help balance some of their weekday commitments, like childcare, school, or other part-time jobs.
Weekend nurse jobs usually pay more than weekday shifts. A lot of healthcare facilities and PRN agencies offer a weekend shift differential which makes weekend jobs more attractive to nurses who want to boost their income while also working fewer hours.
Working weekends can expose you to high-demand healthcare settings. At times, weekend shifts can come with a higher patient load, which provides you opportunities to refine your skills even further. If you’re a newer nurse, weekend shifts can also be a great way to gain experience.
What Qualifications do You Need For Weekend Registered Nurse Jobs?
Weekend RN jobs will usually require the same things as weekday RN jobs. You’ll need:
- A valid RN license
- Any specialized certifications based on the role like ALCS for ICU nurses.
Since the requirements are the same, weekend RN jobs are great for new and seasoned nurses.
Are Weekend Jobs Considered Full-time or Part-time?
The answer to this question depends on how many hours you work over the weekend. Some weekend RN positions offer full-time hours over just two or three days which is awesome if you prefer longer shifts. Some weekend roles will also only offer part-time hours, which is great if you’re just looking for supplemental income.
The Problem With Weekend RN Jobs (and how to overcome them)
Weekend nursing definitely has its perks, but before you dive into a weekend nurse job, we should take the time to go over some of the negatives.
- Balancing Personal Life: Clearly communicate your schedule with family and friends, and plan activities around your shifts to make sure you don’t miss out on important moments.
- Staying Energized: Make sure you prioritize self-care. Healthy meals, consistent sleep schedules, and regular exercise can help maintain your energy.
- Managing Stress: Utilize stress-relief techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or simply taking short walks during your downtime to decompress.
Where to Find Weekend RN Jobs
Finding the right weekend job doesn’t have to be a challenge. Here are some options to help you find the right job:
Staffing Agencies
Agencies like Cascade Health Services specialize in connecting nurses with flexible roles, like weekend shifts. With open jobs across Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Nebraska, Cascade has plenty of options that meet your individual needs.
Hospitals and Clinics
Most healthcare facilities have weekend-only options, especially in critical care or long-term care settings.
Online Job Boards
Websites like Indeed and ZipRecruiter are great resources for finding PRN and weekend-specific roles.
Do Weekend Nurses Get Paid More?
Yes! Many healthcare facilities and staffing agencies offer higher pay rates for weekend shifts. This is usually because of higher patient demand and the need to incentivize staff during weekends. Nurses take advantage of the pay differentials to make more money while working fewer hours.
Tips for Thriving as a Weekend RN
Here are some pro tips to succeed in your weekend nursing role:
- Create a clear distinction between work and personal time, especially on your days off.
- Use apps or planners to manage your schedule and prioritize tasks.
- If you’re working through an agency, take advantage of resources and support like continuing education, flexible scheduling, or travel nursing opportunities.
Regional Demand for Weekend RNs
If you’re in Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, or Nebraska, the demand for weekend RNs is growing rapidly. These states are experiencing a nursing shortage, especially during weekends, making it a great time to explore flexible and high-paying positions. Cascade Health Services is proud to provide PRN staffing options tailored to nurses in these regions.
How to Apply for Weekend RN Jobs
- Check for openings: Check out job boards like Cascades PRN job boards or websites like Indeed or ZipRecruiter.
- Apply: Make sure your resume and cover letter are updated before you apply. If you need help writing a great nursing resume we wrote a blog all about it and even provided some templates.
- Enjoy flexible work: Once you have the job, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the added flexibility.
Ready to Elevate Your Nursing Career?
Weekend registered nurse jobs are an excellent choice for those seeking flexibility, higher pay, and valuable experience. Whether you’re new to weekend nursing or looking to switch agencies, Cascade Health Services is here to help you find the perfect role.
