You may consider working as a PRN nurse when looking into the flexibility of the nursing profession. The healthcare industry is vast, with various roles tailored to suit different interests, lifestyles, and career goals.
PRN nursing is a unique and increasingly popular career option within this field. Here we’ll talk about what a PRN in nursing really means, its advantages and disadvantages, how it differs from traditional nursing roles, and how to be a successful one.
What Is PRN in Nursing?
PRN, from the Latin “pro re nata,” means “as needed.” PRN nurses, who are fully licensed, work differently from full-time nurses. They work on-call instead of having a set schedule.
Their work may vary from a single shift to several, stepping in during periods of staff shortages, such as when regular nurses take vacations or during unforeseen events that increase the demand for healthcare services.
Due to the uncertain nature of healthcare, PRN nurses are an essential component of the nursing workforce, providing flexibility and critical support where and when it’s needed most.
Difference Between a PRN and a Regular Nurse?
Here are the main differences between a PRN and a regular nurse:
1. Salaries
One of the most significant differences between PRN nurses and regular nurses is the salary structure. PRN nurses often earn a higher hourly wage than regular staff nurses because they do not receive the same benefits, such as health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans.
These nurses are compensated at a rate that accounts for the lack of traditional employment benefits.
2. Working Time
Regular nurses usually adhere to a set schedule, whether it’s three 12-hour shifts or five 8-hour shifts per week. In contrast, PRN nurses work as needed, which means their schedule can significantly vary from week to week or month to month.
There is no guarantee of a minimum number of hours for PRN nurses, but they have the freedom to choose shifts that align with their personal schedule or financial goals.
3. Responsibilities
Despite the scheduling differences, the responsibilities of a PRN nurse during their shift are generally the same as those of a regular staff nurse. They provide patient care, administer medications, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and document patient information.
What may differ is their familiarity with unit-specific protocols and team dynamics, as they might work in various departments.
4. Other Considerations
Additional considerations for PRN nurses include the potential lack of job security compared to full-time employees, as well as the need to be adaptable to different working environments.
Also, they often need to be proactive in communicating with their employer about their availability and in seeking out shifts, especially in competitive markets.
Responsibilities of a PRN Nurse
The core responsibilities of a PRN nurse align with those of their full-time counterparts: to provide patient care. However, PRN nurses must often do so with an added level of adaptability and independence.
They must quickly acclimate to different wards, patient care protocols, and team dynamics.
Detailed responsibilities include, but are not limited to, administering medications, monitoring patient recovery and progress, collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals, and educating patients and their families on post-hospital care.
PRN nurses also need to maintain accurate and detailed patient records, just as full-time nurses do. Their unique challenge is in ensuring continuity of care amid changing shifts and different healthcare teams.
Staying up-to-date with hospital policies and procedures is essential, and PRN nurses may also be responsible for mentoring or supervising less experienced or newer staff.
Why Should You Consider Becoming a PRN?
The reasons for considering a PRN nursing role are as varied as the individuals who fill these positions. Below, let’s explore some of the benefits that draw nurses to this type of work.
1. Flexibility of Working the Shifts
Arguably the most significant advantage of PRN nursing is the flexibility it offers. Unlike full-time nurses, who often work fixed schedules, PRN nurses have more control over when they work. This flexibility can be ideal for those with other commitments, such as family, education, or personal interests.
PRN nursing can also appeal to those seeking to avoid burnout by limiting the number of hours they work or by having the ability to take extended time off between shifts.
2. Better Work-Life Balance
Hand in hand with flexibility, the PRN role can provide a more desirable work-life balance. Nurses often face demanding schedules that can make it challenging to prioritize personal time.
PRN nursing can offer a way to maintain clinical skills and earn income while also dedicating time to personal needs and family life. It’s an option that can suit those looking at nursing from a lifestyle perspective, rather than merely a full-time career.
3. Chances to Work in Different Departments
Another significant benefit of PRN nursing relates to the breadth of experiences gained from working across different departments or even different healthcare facilities. Those with an appetite for learning will find that the variety in PRN work helps broaden their skillset considerably.
This diversity of experience can be advantageous, whether it’s used to build a more robust resume or to find a niche within nursing that truly resonates with personal interests and strengths.
Additionally, the exposure to various healthcare environments can help in building professional networks and understanding the intricacies of different specialties.
For new nurses, this can be an invaluable opportunity to explore which areas of nursing they are most passionate about before committing to a full-time position. Meanwhile, experienced nurses might appreciate the chance to keep their skills sharp in multiple disciplines, ensuring a well-rounded professional expertise.
4. Opportunities for Retirees
Retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of a nurse’s career. For those looking to step back from the demands of full-time work but not ready to hang up their scrubs for good, PRN positions provide a perfect solution.
These roles can offer the chance to stay active in the nursing field, continue serving patients, and maintain a stream of income without the commitment of a full-time schedule.
5. Exposure to Diverse Patient Populations
PRN nursing can afford you the opportunity to work with a wide range of patient populations, allowing you to develop a broad perspective on care provision.
This exposure is incredibly valuable; it enriches your understanding of healthcare and enhances your empathy and communication skills.
Whether you’re shifting from pediatrics to geriatrics, or from emergency care to surgical post-op, each experience enriches your practice and can make you a more well-rounded nurse.
6. Trial Periods for Potential Full-Time Positions
Taking on PRN roles at various facilities can also serve as an extended trial period. This is particularly beneficial if you’re considering a full-time position but want to get a sense of
the workplace culture, daily routines, and the type of care required before committing.
It’s an opportunity to “test-drive” potential employers and find a match that aligns best with your career objectives and personal values. In addition, it can help you identify which settings you thrive in, and which ones you’d prefer to avoid in the future.
7. Professional Networking
PRN positions naturally involve working within multiple teams and facilities, which allows for extensive professional networking. These connections can lead to new opportunities and can be a source of support and mentorship.
Networking within diverse healthcare settings can also provide insights into potential career paths and may open doors to roles you may not have considered or known about.
Disadvantages of Becoming a PRN
While the advantages of PRN nursing can be appealing, it’s also important to consider the potential drawbacks before making the transition. Here are some key disadvantages to keep in mind:
1. Lack of Guaranteed Hours
PRN nurses do not have guaranteed hours, which means that their work schedules can be unpredictable and may fluctuate based on the facility’s needs. During periods of low census or unexpected staffing changes, PRN nurses might find themselves with fewer opportunities to work, which can lead to financial instability.
2. No Benefits Package
Unlike full-time employees, PRN nurses typically do not receive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, or retirement savings plans. This lack of traditional job benefits requires PRN nurses to make alternative arrangements to secure health coverage and plan for their financial future, which can be an added responsibility.
3. Less Integration with Staff Teams
Since PRN nurses may not work consistently with the same team, they may find it more challenging to build relationships and rapport with colleagues. This can impact team cohesion and potentially affect the nurse’s sense of belonging and job satisfaction.
4. Need for Greater Adaptability
PRN nursing demands a high level of adaptability and quick thinking. Nurses must be capable of stepping into a new environment frequently and adjusting to different policies, procedures, and team cultures. This constant change can be stressful and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who prefer a consistent routine.
5. Reduced Career Advancement Opportunities
Because they are not regularly present at a single institution, PRN nurses might miss out on opportunities for career advancement that are more readily available to full-time staff, such as promotions or participation in professional development and training programs.
6. Being On-Call
Depending on the employer, some PRN nurses might need to be on-call, which requires them to be available to work at short notice. This can impact their ability to make personal plans and may require a greater degree of flexibility and availability than some are willing to provide.
How Do You Transition from PRN to Full Time?
The transition from PRN to full-time nursing positions can occur when a nurse decides that they prefer the stability and benefits that come with a full-time role. The process usually involves:
- Building rapport with the teams and management in the facilities where the nurse works as PRN.
- Expressing interest in full-time positions and applying when openings arise.
- Demonstrating reliability and a strong work ethic as a PRN nurse to increase the chances of being considered for a full-time role.
- Networking with other healthcare professionals and hiring managers to be aware of upcoming full-time opportunities.
It’s also vital for nurses to maintain an up-to-date resume that reflects all of their experience as a PRN nurse, highlighting the diversity of their skills and their ability to adapt to different working environments.
How to Become a PRN?
If PRN nursing sounds like the right path for you, there are several steps to take to enter this field.
1. Obtain a Degree
Firstly, you’ll need to obtain the necessary nursing education. This could be an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Both degrees require passing the NCLEX-RN to become a registered nurse (RN).
2. Gain Licensure
Once your education is complete, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your nursing license. This is required for any nursing role, whether full-time, part-time, or PRN.
3. Find PRN Nursing Opportunities
With your degree and license in hand, you can start applying for PRN positions. These can be found through hospital job postings, staffing agencies, or professional networking. It’s essential to be proactive and flexible when seeking PRN opportunities, as the demand can vary based on the facility’s needs and the time of year.
When searching for PRN roles, consider the following:
- Job boards: Many healthcare employers post PRN job openings on popular job boards. Regularly checking these can provide you with a variety of options.
- Staffing agencies: Some nurses find PRN work through agencies that specialize in healthcare staffing. These agencies can help to match your skill set and preferences with suitable PRN roles.
- Networking: Attend industry events, join nursing associations, and connect with fellow nurses on professional social networks like LinkedIn. Networking can often lead to PRN job opportunities through word-of-mouth recommendations.
- Direct inquiries: Don’t hesitate to reach out directly to healthcare facilities or nursing departments where you would like to work. They may have PRN opportunities that are not advertised widely.
Once you secure a PRN position, it’s crucial to remain flexible and open to learning new systems and processes. PRN nurses need to adapt quickly to different work environments and be ready to hit the ground running whenever they’re called to a shift.
6 Tips for Success as a PRN Nurse
Achieving success as a PRN nurse requires a combination of professional discipline, personal wellness, and workplace adaptability. The nature of PRN nursing demands not only clinical acumen but also the expertise to navigate the fluid dynamics of different healthcare settings.
Here are some tips to help you become a valued PRN nurse and explain why they’re beneficial.
1. Manage Your Schedule Effectively
For PRN nurses who balance shifts across various units or healthcare facilities, mastering the art of scheduling is essential. Good time management helps ensure that you remain punctual, well-prepared, and stress-free as you move from one commitment to the next.
It also allows for optimal work-life integration, enabling you to make time for family, education, or leisure activities. Using tools like digital planners or apps can keep you organized and prevent the potential for double-booking or missing shifts.
An orderly schedule is instrumental for maintaining professionalism and reliability in the eyes of your employers.
2. Stay Clinical Vigilant and Versatile
As you may rotate through different specialties or units, the ability to quickly adapt and apply your clinical knowledge is key. This versatility makes you an indispensable asset to any team you join, particularly in high-demand situations.
It ensures patient care remains seamless as you integrate into various clinical settings. Committing yourself to lifelong learning and staying up-to-date with clinical best practices reinforces your ability to provide exemplary care, regardless of the patient demographics or healthcare environment.
Keeping informed about the latest research and technology in nursing allows you to bring fresh insights and approaches to each new role you undertake, which can lead to better patient outcomes and professional respect.
3. Cultivate Effective Communication
Clear and effective communication is the cornerstone of good patient care and functioning healthcare teams.
For PRN nurses, who regularly transition between different groups and settings, the ability to communicate well is especially crucial.
Clearly articulating your questions, concerns, and observations helps to ensure that there are no misunderstandings that could affect patient care.
Meanwhile, good communication fosters trust and camaraderie with your colleagues, who may rely on your insights and observations to provide comprehensive care. It also involves active listening, which ensures that you fully incorporate the feedback and instructions from permanent staff, leading to a more harmonious and productive work environment.
4. Engage in Ongoing Professional Development
Investing in your professional growth through continuous learning not only expands your knowledge base but also demonstrates a commitment to your nursing practice.
Enhancing your qualifications through additional coursework, certifications, and attending industry conferences reflects a dedication to nursing excellence that can translate into better patient care and increased job opportunities.
Engaging in professional development also prepares you for a broader range of clinical scenarios, enabling you to feel confident and competent in any given situation.
It signals to employers that you are serious about your role, even in a PRN capacity, which can lead to preference for more shifts and consideration for career advancement when full-time positions become available.
Furthermore, staying current with nursing education and credentials helps you meet regulatory requirements and remain compliant with state and national nursing boards.
5. Prioritize Personal Health and Wellness
The irregular and often unpredictable nature of PRN work can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. Prioritizing self-care is essential if you are to sustain a long and fruitful career in nursing.
Proper rest, nutrition, and mental health care can improve your resilience to work-related stress and enhance your capacity to provide patient care. Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can help maintain physical fitness, which is critical given the physically demanding tasks of nursing.
By looking after your own health, you’re better positioned to care for others, and you can set a positive example for patients and peers alike.
6. Establish a Solid Professional Reputation
Building a strong professional reputation can open doors to increased opportunities and offers you a competitive edge in the PRN nursing marketplace.
Being known for reliable, high-quality patient care, responsiveness to shifts, and the ability to work well with different teams can make you a sought-after candidate for PRN roles.
Consistency in your nursing practice, regardless of setting, also ends up reflecting well on your adaptability and commitment to the profession. Facilities are more likely to give recurring work to a PRN nurse they trust and respect, leading to a more stable and predictable workload for you.
Maintaining a good reputation involves not just the quality of care you provide but also your professional behavior. It means being punctual, prepared, and present both mentally and physically for your shifts.
Also, it’s about being resourceful—quickly identifying where you can be most helpful on a new team, and stepping in to fill that need without hesitation. Taking responsibility and showing initiative are traits that employers value greatly and can result in higher respect and more shift opportunities.
Conclusion
PRN nursing stands out as a flexible and dynamic in the nursing field. By understanding what PRN work entails and considering the advantages and disadvantages, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for you.
