How to Get Started with Per Diem Nursing in Pennsylvania: A Guide for RNs, LPNs & CNAs

For RNs, LPNs, and CNAs considering agency nursing for the first time, the promise is appealing: flexible schedules, competitive pay, and the freedom to choose where and when you work. But navigating the world of per diem staffing in Pennsylvania raises practical questions. How does it work? What should you expect? And how do you find an agency that actually treats you well?

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about working as a per diem nurse in Pennsylvania — from how the process works to what to look for in a staffing agency partner.

What Is Per Diem Nursing?

Per diem is a Latin phrase meaning “per day.” In nursing, it refers to working on an as-needed, shift-by-shift basis through a staffing agency rather than as a permanent employee of a healthcare facility. You’re employed by the staffing agency, which places you at client facilities based on their open shift needs.

Per diem nurses in Pennsylvania typically work at hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics. You may work at a different facility each shift, or you may establish a regular schedule at one or two preferred locations — it depends on your arrangement with your agency and the facilities in your area.

The Benefits of Per Diem Nursing in Pennsylvania

Scheduling Flexibility

This is the biggest draw for most per diem nurses. You work when you want to work. If you need a week off for personal reasons, you don’t take it — you just don’t pick up shifts. If you want to maximize your income one month, you pick up more. The control is yours.

Competitive Pay Rates

Per diem nurses in Pennsylvania typically earn higher hourly rates than their permanently employed counterparts, in part because they don’t receive the same benefits package. The premium varies by role, location, and shift type — but RN per diem rates in Eastern PA are generally well above standard staff nurse rates.

Variety of Facilities and Experiences

If you enjoy working in different environments, encountering diverse patient populations, and expanding your clinical exposure, per diem nursing is a natural fit. Working across multiple facilities also builds your professional network and can open doors to permanent opportunities.

Work-Life Balance

Many nurses turn to per diem work during life transitions — raising young children, pursuing advanced education, managing a health issue, or transitioning toward retirement. Per diem offers income without the rigid commitment of a full-time position.

What You’ll Need to Work Per Diem in Pennsylvania

To work as a per diem nurse through a Pennsylvania staffing agency, you’ll typically need:

• An active, unencumbered Pennsylvania nursing license (RN, LPN, or CNA certification)
• Current CPR/BLS certification (ACLS/PALS may be required for certain specialty areas)
• Up-to-date immunization records (TB test, flu shot, hepatitis B series, and others depending on the facility)
• A clear background check
• References from previous clinical supervisors
• Completed skills checklists for your specialty area

A good staffing agency will walk you through the credentialing process and tell you exactly what’s needed before you can be placed. At ProStat, we work to make onboarding as fast as possible so you can start working sooner.

How to Choose a Nursing Staffing Agency in Pennsylvania

Not every agency is the same. Here’s what to evaluate:

Local vs. National Agencies

National agencies have large databases but may not have strong relationships with facilities in your area. A local Pennsylvania agency — one that specifically focuses on Eastern and Central PA — will typically have more open shifts in your region, closer recruiter relationships with local facilities, and a better understanding of what facilities near you pay and require.

How They Treat Their Nurses

Ask nurses who work for the agency about their experience. Do they get paid on time? Does their recruiter return calls? Are they being placed at facilities that are a good fit? Per diem nursing works best when you have a recruiter who advocates for you — not just who fills shifts.

Pay and Benefits Transparency

A reputable agency will give you clear, upfront information about pay rates by role, shift differential structures, holiday pay, and benefits eligibility. Be cautious of agencies that are vague about compensation until after you’ve been placed.

Geographic Coverage

Make sure the agency actively places nurses at facilities in your preferred area. If you live in Lancaster County and they only have strong relationships in Philadelphia, you may find yourself driving farther than you expected.

Per Diem Nursing Jobs in Eastern and Central Pennsylvania

ProStat Workforce Solutions places RNs, LPNs, CNAs, and PCAs at healthcare facilities throughout the region — including Reading/Berks County, Lancaster, York, Harrisburg, Lebanon, and Chester County. Our per diem nurses get dedicated recruiter support, competitive rates, and fast, transparent onboarding.

If you’re considering per diem nursing in Pennsylvania, we’d like to talk. Contact a ProStat recruiter today to learn about current openings →