You’ve probably seen the abbreviation “PRN” in job listings, especially within the healthcare industry, but what does it actually mean? PRN stands for the Latin phrase “pro re nata,” which translates to “as needed.” In the job market, it signifies a flexible employment arrangement where you’re hired to work on an on-demand basis.
The PRN model is becoming increasingly common across different fields. But it’s essential to understand the implications before accepting a PRN position. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of what PRN means for a job, exploring the benefits and drawbacks for both employees and employers, and the practical considerations to keep in mind.
Whether you’re a job seeker, a healthcare professional, or an employer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the world of PRN work.
What Does PRN Mean? Defining the Term and Scope
If you’ve seen the abbreviation “PRN” in job postings, you might wonder what it means. Here’s a look at the term and how it’s used in different fields.
The Core Meaning of PRN
PRN comes from the Latin phrase “pro re nata,” which means “as the need arises.” So, a PRN employee is called in to work when the need arises.
The position is different from full-time, part-time, and contract work. PRN workers aren’t full-time or part-time employees, and they’re also different from contract or travel nurses.
PRN in the Healthcare Sector
You’ll see the abbreviation most often in healthcare, especially in nursing, where PRN nurses fill staffing gaps as they’re needed. Other healthcare roles, such as certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and certified medical assistants (CMAs), may also be PRN positions.
Flexibility and Control: The Hallmark of PRN Jobs
The biggest advantage of PRN work is flexibility. If you take a PRN job, you’ll likely have unmatched control over your schedule. You can choose your shifts and prioritize personal commitments, education, or even other jobs.
For example, a PRN nurse can decide when and how often they want to work. This flexibility allows for a much better work-life balance than a traditional full-time position. It can be a great option for students, parents, or anyone who needs to work around a busy personal schedule.
If you value the ability to choose your own hours and maintain a strong work-life balance, a PRN job might be the perfect fit.
Earning Potential: Understanding PRN Compensation
PRN workers often make more per hour than their full-time counterparts. For instance, a PRN nurse usually earns a higher hourly wage than a staff nurse. Why?
Employers often pay PRN workers more because they don’t offer benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or retirement contributions. Plus, PRN employees need to be available on demand, which requires flexibility and sometimes last-minute scheduling.
This means you’ll get a higher hourly rate, but you’ll likely miss out on benefits. For example, while PRN nurses may earn more per hour than full-time or part-time nurses, they usually don’t receive health insurance or paid vacation.
The actual amount PRN employees earn depends on the field and location. In some areas, PRN registered nurses can earn up to $100 per hour depending on their specialty.
Career Growth and Exposure in PRN Roles
One of the biggest advantages of PRN work is the incredible exposure it gives you to different work environments. As a PRN nurse, for example, you might find yourself working in an emergency room one week and a hospice center the next. This kind of variety isn’t just interesting; it significantly broadens your knowledge base and skillset.
By working in different settings, you’re constantly learning new things and adapting to new challenges. This makes you a more well-rounded and adaptable professional, which can open doors to new opportunities and career advancement down the road.
Plus, PRN work provides you the chance to network and build connections with people in different organizations. These connections can be invaluable as you progress in your career.
Potential Challenges and Considerations of PRN Work
While PRN work offers flexibility, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some things to consider before taking a PRN job.
Income Instability and Lack of Benefits
One of the biggest downsides of PRN work is the potential for fluctuating income. Because your hours aren’t guaranteed, your paycheck can vary significantly from week to week. You also won’t receive the traditional employee benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions.
Self-Discipline and Organization
PRN work requires a high degree of self-discipline. You’re responsible for managing your own schedule, tracking your income, and saving for expenses like taxes and insurance. Strong organizational skills are essential to stay on top of everything.
Potential for Limited Shift Selection
Depending on the employer, PRN workers may have less choice in selecting shifts. For example, PRN nurses often have last pick when it comes to scheduling, which can make it difficult to plan your life outside of work.
Where to find PRN jobs
If you’re looking for PRN work, you can try:
- Staffing agencies: Healthcare staffing agencies often specialize in filling temporary or as-needed positions.
- Job boards: General job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Monster sometimes list PRN opportunities.
- Facility websites: Check the career pages of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in your area. They may post PRN openings directly.
- Networking: Let your friends, colleagues, and former supervisors know you’re looking for PRN work. They may be aware of opportunities you haven’t found.
- Gig platforms: Sites like IntelyCare connect healthcare professionals with flexible, on-demand jobs.
Building relationships with employers in your field can also help you find PRN opportunities. Let them know you’re available for occasional work, and they may call you when they need someone to fill in.
W-2 vs. 1099: Understanding Different PRN Contract Types
PRN jobs sometimes come in two different flavors: W-2 and 1099. These refer to the tax forms you’ll receive and how your earnings are reported to the government.
A W-2 position means you’re an employee. The agency or facility withholds taxes from your paycheck and typically offers benefits. On the other hand, a 1099 position means you’re an independent contractor. You’ll get a higher hourly rate, but you’re responsible for paying your own taxes and won’t receive benefits like health insurance or paid time off.
In Summary
Working PRN—as needed—can be a great way to enjoy a flexible schedule, earn more per shift, and explore different career paths. But PRN work isn’t for everyone. The income can be unpredictable, and you usually won’t receive benefits like health insurance or paid time off.
Before you jump into a PRN job, it’s important to think about your personal needs and priorities. Do you value flexibility above all else? Are you comfortable with fluctuating income? Can you secure your own health insurance and other benefits?
If you’re intrigued by the idea of PRN work, research the available positions in your field. Talk to people who work PRN and get their insights. Then, decide if a PRN job aligns with your career goals and lifestyle.