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Per Diem Psychiatric Rn Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Psychiatric Registered Nurse

Washington, DC · On-site

$2.0K - $2.8K/wk

SH-967 Registered Nurse, Washington, DC Duties: * Provide direct patient care in a psychiatric setting, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. * Administer ...

Local Per Diem RN Tele

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$41.25 - $48.25/hr

RN - Tele -- Alexandria, VA 22304 Ambition 24 Hours | StafferLink Contract Positions bookings@ambition24hours.com RN - Tele -- Per Diem / PRN Per Diem Contract | Alexandria, VA 22304 | Short Day ...

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Per Diem Psychiatric Rn information

What is a per diem psychiatric RN?

A Per Diem Psychiatric Registered Nurse (RN) is a licensed nurse who works on an as-needed or on-call basis in mental health settings such as hospitals, clinics, or psychiatric facilities. Instead of having a fixed schedule, per diem nurses fill in for staff shortages, cover busy shifts, or help with temporary increases in patient volume. Their responsibilities include assessing patients’ mental health, administering medications, providing therapeutic interventions, and collaborating with the healthcare team. This role offers flexibility and often pays a higher hourly wage compared to full-time positions, but typically does not provide benefits like health insurance or paid time off.

How does a per diem psychiatric RN typically integrate with full-time staff and multidisciplinary teams in a mental health facility?

As a Per Diem Psychiatric RN, you will often collaborate closely with full-time nurses, psychiatrists, social workers, and therapists. While you may not have a fixed schedule, strong communication skills are key to quickly understanding patient needs and care plans during each shift. You'll be expected to adapt to different team dynamics and contribute valuable insights, ensuring continuity of care for patients. Flexibility and the ability to work independently are important, as you'll frequently acclimate to new units or patient populations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem psychiatric RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Per Diem Psychiatric RN, you need a valid RN license, psychiatric nursing experience, and a strong understanding of mental health disorders and crisis intervention. Familiarity with EHR systems, psychiatric assessment tools, and de-escalation techniques is typically required. Excellent communication, flexibility, and emotional resilience are critical soft skills for engaging with patients and adapting to varying shift assignments. These skills ensure safe, effective patient care and help manage the unique challenges of psychiatric settings on a flexible, per diem basis.

What is the difference between Per Diem Psychiatric Rn vs Staff Psychiatric Nurse?

AspectPer Diem Psychiatric RnStaff Psychiatric Nurse
CertificationsRN license, possibly specialized in psychiatric careRN license, often with psychiatric certification
Work EnvironmentVaries; hospitals, clinics, mental health facilities, on a per-diem basisFull-time or part-time in psychiatric units or mental health settings
Employment TypePer diem, flexible schedulingTypically salaried or hourly, with scheduled shifts
Job FocusProviding psychiatric nursing care on an as-needed basisProviding ongoing psychiatric nursing care and patient management

Per Diem Psychiatric Rns work on a flexible, as-needed basis, often filling in for staff shortages or covering shifts. Staff Psychiatric Nurses usually have a regular schedule, providing consistent patient care. Both roles require RN licensure and psychiatric knowledge, but differ mainly in employment structure and scheduling.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Per Diem Psychiatric Rn jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Per Diem Psychiatric Rn job openings:

Infographic showing various Per Diem Psychiatric Rn job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Psychiatric Registered Nurse

Syra Health

Washington, DC • On-site

$2.0K - $2.8K/wk

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

SH-967 Registered Nurse, Washington, DC
Duties:
  • Provide direct patient care in a psychiatric setting, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.
  • Administer medications and monitor their effectiveness and side effects.
  • Conduct therapeutic interventions and provide counseling to patients.
  • Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans.
  • Assist in the management of psychiatric emergencies and crisis situations.
  • Conduct patient education on mental health conditions, medications, and coping strategies.
  • Document patient information accurately and maintain confidentiality.

Requirements:
  • Valid nursing license and certification as a Psychiatric Nurse.
  • Knowledge of airway management techniques and procedures.
  • Familiarity with eClinicalWorks or similar electronic medical record systems.
  • Experience in discharge planning and coordination of care for patients transitioning from psychiatric facilities to community settings.
  • Ability to perform specialized procedures such as sonography, spinal taps, dermal fillers, and esthetic laser treatments.
  • Proficiency in medical imaging interpretation for diagnostic purposes.
  • Sensitivity and understanding of the unique needs of individuals with special needs.