If you’ve longed to do work that makes an impact on the lives of others, if you enjoy caregiving, and making a difference for the better, it might be time to consider a career as a Per Diem Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
- Every Day is Different
A Per Diem Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a state certified healthcare professional that travels locally to various healthcare organizations, typically a nursing home or assisted living community to work shifts as needed. This allows Per Diem CNAs to experience new people, teams, systems and processes each day. While the work environments change, the demands and skills necessary for the job remain consistent, which brings a balance of stability and excitement to the job.
- Rewards and Challenges
Many Per Diem CNAs report that their job is incredibly fulfilling and rewarding! The work of a Per Diem CNA directly supports the well-being and quality of life of others, giving daily opportunities to make a positive impact on the individuals being cared for. Further, CNAs have the opportunity to give support to the family members of their residents by offering sympathy, compassion, and a listening ear when needed. This position also offers challenges, opportunities to learn, and grow expertise. Given the nature of senior living, CNAs may need to be able to act quickly and calmly in the event of an emergency. They will need to be able to respond professionally in tense situations, and possess an in-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations, as well as company policies and procedures. Altogether, many CNAs love both the rewards and challenges that lead to a sense of achievement each day.
- Expanded Professional Experience
Per Diem CNAs have the opportunity to support staffing shortages when they occur. Per Diem CNA shifts at several nursing homes can provide a collective expertise of different systems, policies and processes, as well as different team environments. As a Per Diem CNA, this experience is accumulated quickly and can be a great way to further impact residents, and expand career opportunities.
- Work – Life Balance
Taking on a CNA career can open up opportunities for CNAs to determine when, where, and how long they work. It also allows for CNAs to schedule their time off when they need it. As a Per Diem CNA, you are in control of your schedule.
- Growing Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for Per Diem CNAs has been steadily rising over the past few years, with a projected increase by at least 8% by 2029, which is much faster than other occupational job growth. Currently, the United States has an aging population, which is driving the need for more long-term care facilities, as well as health professionals. Per Diem CNAs are now in even higher demand since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many nursing homes are in need of Per Diem CNAs specifically to help them work through staffing shortages.
If you are already a CNA and are looking for per diem opportunities, fill out our How to Get Started page, and downloading our GigWorx app. If you aren’t a CNA yet and would like to learn more, you can sign up for classes and then join the GigWorx Healthcare Pros team!
