If you are a registered nurse, LPN, or CNA in Maryland considering per diem or contract work, you are not alone. Thousands of Maryland clinicians are turning to flexible staffing arrangements as an alternative — or a supplement — to traditional full-time employment. Before you take the leap, here is an honest, practical overview of what per diem nursing really looks like.
What Does “Per Diem” Actually Mean?
Per diem is Latin for “by the day.” In healthcare staffing, it refers to shifts worked on an as-needed basis rather than a set schedule. As a per diem clinician, you pick up shifts at one or more facilities based on your availability. You are not locked into a fixed schedule, but you are also not guaranteed hours — it is a trade-off that works very well for many nurses and less well for others.
The Real Benefits of Per Diem Work
- Higher hourly rates — Per diem nurses typically earn more per hour than their full-time counterparts to offset the lack of benefits.
- Schedule flexibility — You set your availability and accept shifts that work for your life.
- Diverse clinical exposure — Working across multiple facilities builds your skill set and broadens your professional network.
- No long-term commitment — You can step back during busy personal periods without giving notice.
What to Watch Out For
- Inconsistent hours — Demand can fluctuate, especially for newer agency nurses without an established track record at a facility.
- Benefits gaps — Most per diem roles do not include health insurance or paid time off. Plan accordingly.
- Licensing compliance — Maryland requires your MBON license to be active and in good standing. Some facilities also require BLS, ACLS, and other certifications.
- Non-compete clauses — Under Maryland law, non-compete agreements are unenforceable for direct patient care nurses. Know your rights.
How to Set Yourself Up for Success
Nurses who thrive in per diem roles tend to be adaptable, self-directed, and proactive communicators. Here are a few practical steps:
- Keep your credentials organized and up to date — license renewals, CPR cards, TB tests, and immunization records.
- Build relationships at the facilities where you work — reliability leads to repeat bookings.
- Work with an agency that is transparent about pay, scheduling, and expectations from day one.
- Track your income carefully — as a 1099 contractor, quarterly estimated taxes may apply.
What Amour Healthcare Services LLC Offers Clinicians
We work with RNs, LPNs, CNAs, GNAs, and other clinical professionals across Maryland. Our team is straightforward about pay rates, shift expectations, and facility environments so you can make informed decisions about where you work. We handle the credentialing paperwork so you can focus on doing what you do best — caring for patients.