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Per Diem Rn Observation Unit Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aspirus Wausau Hospital

RN - Observation Unit

Wausau, WI · On-site

$42.50 - $56.25/hr

Travel RN Observation Unit Weekly rate listed is an estimate and can vary based on the applicant ... Current Resume * Nursing License per state * Current BLS and/or ACLS and/or Specialty ...

Talent4Health

RN - Observation Unit

Rochester, NY · On-site

$2.1K/wk

The Observation unit is a very fast paced environment that turns over 20 to 27 patients per day ... Requirements: * RN License (NY License ONLY) * Two years of Med/Surg Experience * Telemetry ...

TLC NURSING SERVICES

RN - Observation Unit

Odessa, TX · On-site

$1.9K/wk

Details Client Name Medical Center Health System Job Type Travel Offering Nursing Profession RN Specialty Observation Unit Job ID 36975828 Job Title RN - Observation Unit Weekly Pay $1901.0 Shift ...

Next Move Healthcare

RN, Observation Unit

Odessa, TX · On-site

$1.9K/wk

RN, Observation Unit Care Career is looking for Observation Unit RN's to fulfill an assignment in ... per week: 3 Scheduled hours: 36 Start date: 09/01/2026 Start dates are flexible End date: 12/01 ...

A24Group

Per Diem Registered Nurse

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$50.40 - $58.80/hr

Per Diem Registered Nurse (RN) - NICU Location: Minneapolis, MN (55404) Shift: Night Shift | 07:00 PM - 07:30 AM Schedule: Per Diem Compensation $50.40 - $58.80/hr Overview We are seeking an ...

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How much do per diem rn observation unit jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem rn observation unit in the United States is $45.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.22 and $50.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a per diem RN in an observation unit?

A Per Diem RN in an Observation Unit is a registered nurse who works on an as-needed basis, rather than a fixed full-time or part-time schedule, in a hospital unit where patients are monitored and assessed to determine if they require inpatient admission or can be safely discharged. These nurses provide direct patient care, perform assessments, administer medications, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Per diem roles offer flexibility for the nurse and help hospitals manage staffing needs during busy periods or staff shortages.

What are some common challenges faced by per diem RNs in an observation unit, and how can they be managed?

Per Diem RNs in Observation Units often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to varying patient acuity levels and frequently adjusting to different shifts or teams. Since their schedules are flexible, they may need to rapidly orient themselves to unit protocols and workflow with each assignment. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and staying updated on hospital policies can help Per Diem RNs succeed in this fast-paced environment. Building relationships with regular staff and proactively asking questions also fosters smoother collaboration and patient care.

Does per diem registered nurse observation unit pay more?

Per diem registered nurses in observation units often earn higher hourly rates compared to full-time staff due to the flexible schedule and lack of benefits. However, pay can vary based on location, experience, and facility policies, and per diem roles typically do not include benefits like health insurance or paid time off. Overall, per diem positions may offer higher immediate pay but less comprehensive compensation packages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem RN in an observation unit?

To thrive as a Per Diem RN in an Observation Unit, you need a valid RN license, strong clinical assessment skills, and experience in acute or emergency care settings. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, telemetry monitoring, and basic life support (BLS/ACLS) certifications are typically required. Flexibility, excellent communication, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing patient conditions are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient patient care and seamless integration into the unit’s fast-paced, dynamic environment.
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Per Diem Rn Observation Unit jobs near you

Clinical Nurse (RN) - Observation Unit | Per Diem Level III | Days

Howard University Hospital

Washington, DC • On-site

$65/hr

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Howard University Hospital rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 1,054 rated hospitals

Job description

Description
Clinical Nurse (RN) - Observation Unit | Per Diem Level III | Days
Howard University Hospital | Washington, DC
About the Role
The Clinical Nurse (RN) - Per Diem is a Registered Nurse on Howard University Hospital's newly opened Observation Unit (6 East), where you will care for patients under observation status who require short-stay monitoring, diagnostic evaluation, and rapid clinical decision-making before admission or discharge. Working collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team, you will deliver safe, effective, patient- and family-centered care across a broad medical-surgical population, providing flexible per diem coverage that supports the unit's staffing needs.
What You'll Do
  • Conduct comprehensive nursing assessments and reassessments, monitoring patients under observation status for changes in condition and escalating findings to the care team as appropriate.
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized plans of care in collaboration with physicians, advanced practice providers, and the interdisciplinary team.
  • Administer medications, treatments, and interventions safely and accurately in accordance with hospital policy and established standards of practice.
  • Facilitate the observation-to-disposition process, supporting timely diagnostic workup, response to treatment, and readiness for admission or discharge.
  • Document assessments, interventions, and patient responses accurately and completely in Soarian Clinicals.
  • Delegate and supervise care provided by unlicensed assistive personnel in accordance with scope of practice and unit standards.
  • Participate in performance improvement, infection control, and patient safety initiatives that support the unit's quality goals.
  • Provide patient and family education regarding condition, plan of care, and discharge instructions.
  • Respond to changes in patient status, including participation in Rapid Response and emergency interventions as needed.
  • Maintain professional competency through ongoing education and adherence to evidence-based practice.
Required Qualifications
  • Graduate of an accredited school of nursing; Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or actively enrolled in a BSN program.
  • Current, active licensure as a Registered Nurse in the District of Columbia.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of recent clinical nursing experience.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of nursing theory, practice, and current standards of care.
  • Knowledge of safety hazards and precautions necessary to maintain a safe patient care environment.
  • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, in English.
  • Experience with an electronic health record (Soarian Clinicals).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience in an observation unit or clinical decision unit.
  • Medical-surgical nursing experience across a diverse patient population.
  • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification through the American Heart Association.
  • National certification in Medical-Surgical Nursing (CMSRN or RN-BC).
  • Experience in a fast-paced, high-throughput care environment.

Position Details
Department6 East - Observation UnitReports ToNurse ManagerFLSA StatusNon-ExemptShiftDays | 7:30 AM - 8:00 PMScheduleThree (3) 12-hour shifts per week, set in four (4) week cyclesWeekend RequirementTwo weekends per month (24 hours/month)Holiday RequirementEvery other major holiday required (New Year's, Thanksgiving, Christmas). Additional coverage expected for Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day
Pay & Schedule
This is a per diem, day shift position (7:30 AM - 8:00 PM) with a fixed rate of $65.00 per hour. As a per diem role, this position is not benefits-eligible. Scheduling requirements include two weekends per month and holiday coverage as outlined in the Position Details above.
About Howard University Hospital
Founded in 1862 as Freedmen's Hospital, Howard University Hospital is the nation's only teaching hospital located on the campus of a historically Black university. As a designated Level 1 Trauma Center in the District of Columbia, we provide patient-centered, culturally responsive care to the communities we serve while training the next generation of healthcare professionals.
What We Offer
Howard University Hospital offers a mission-driven environment shaped by more than 150 years of service, where your professional expertise is recognized and rewarded. As a per diem team member, you'll enjoy scheduling flexibility and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient care within one of the nation's most storied academic medical centers.
Culture of Care: In an effort to improve patient safety, Howard University Hospital supports a Just Culture. This atmosphere of accountability promotes the identification of human error, at-risk behavior, and reckless behavior, with the goal of maintaining a culture of learning, safe systems, and well-managed behavioral choices.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Howard University Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Reasonable Accommodation: Howard University Hospital provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Applicants requiring accommodation to complete the application or interview process should contact HUHLA@huhosp.org.
Pay Transparency: The stated pay reflects the rate for this position. Actual pay may vary based on factors including experience, qualifications, and other business and organizational needs.
Disclaimer: The preceding position description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position.

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