When we first entered the staffing market some decades ago, the role of staffing agencies was primarily about providing temporary or per diem staff on a daily basis. Facilities would often call us in the morning, saying, “Hi, our nurse didn’t arrive; do you have a temp nurse available?” and we would scramble to find and contact available nurses in the area.

As time went on, steady contracts became more prevalent. While there were still some per diem needs, hospitals began shifting towards longer contracts and travel nursing, which is still thriving. While per diem staffing still kept its popularity in some places, it further declined during the COVID-19 pandemic as facilities sought more commitment through full-time assignments.

In place of per diem staff, many facilities turned to contracted float pools to fill the constant nursing gaps. This shift provided much-needed consistency during a time when nurses were in high demand.

Since early 2024, we’ve noticed a revival in per diem staffing, and it’s anyone’s guess as to why. Firstly, it has become significantly more cost-effective than hiring contract nurses, as per diem arrangements are on a day-to-day basis. Even when paying higher rates—which is common—it still proves to be cheaper than steady contracts or paying overtime for regular staff.

Once per diem staffing resurfaced, the trend spread rapidly across the country. With new technology and agency resources offering extensive networks, scheduling nurses for per diem work has become much simpler. Additionally, many nurses who have become accustomed to working more shifts since 2020 are excited about the opportunity to pick up PRN (as needed) shifts once again. These nurses adapt quickly, seamlessly stepping into roles and effectively managing their responsibilities.

Does your facility need per diem staff to fill any gaps? With our extensive Per Diem network, specializing in adaptability and teamwork, you are all set! Contact us today to make it happen!