Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) often seek diverse opportunities to expand their careers and meet the demands of the healthcare industry. Two popular options for flexible employment are locum work and PRN (as-needed) work. This article aims to delineate the key distinctions between CRNA locum work and PRN work, shedding light on the unique aspects of each.

CRNA Locum Work

Locum tenens work, commonly referred to as “locum work,” involves CRNAs providing temporary services to healthcare facilities to cover staff shortages, leave periods, or specific projects. CRNAs engaging in locum work are essentially independent contractors who step in to fulfill the role of regular staff members for a predetermined period.

Key Characteristics of CRNA Locum Work

Temporary Assignments:
Locum tenens positions are typically short-term assignments, ranging from a few days to several months, depending on the needs of the healthcare facility.

Variety of Settings:
CRNAs in locum work may find themselves working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers, gaining exposure to different organizational structures and patient populations.

Travel Opportunities:
Locum work often involves traveling to different locations, offering CRNAs the chance to explore diverse regions and healthcare environments.

Independent Contractor Status:
CRNAs working as locum tenens are usually considered independent contractors, responsible for managing their taxes, insurance, and other professional obligations.

PRN Work for CRNAs

PRN work, or per diem work, refers to part-time or intermittent positions where CRNAs are employed on an as-needed basis. In PRN roles, CRNAs may work irregular hours, filling in for absent staff members, covering peak times, or addressing temporary increases in patient demand.

Key Characteristics of CRNA PRN Work

Flexible Scheduling: PRN work offers CRNAs flexibility in choosing when they want to work. They may accept shifts based on their availability and the facility’s staffing needs.

Supplemental Income:
PRN work is often taken on as a supplement to a CRNA’s primary full-time position, providing additional income without the commitment of a regular schedule.

Varied Work Environments:
Similar to locum work, PRN positions can expose CRNAs to various healthcare settings, allowing them to broaden their clinical experiences.

Potential for Consistency:
While PRN work is inherently flexible, some CRNAs may find consistent opportunities within a specific facility, providing a balance between flexibility and regularity.

Comparison

Duration and Commitment:
Locum work is typically short-term and involves a more substantial commitment of time compared to PRN work, which is characterized by its intermittent and flexible nature.

Independence vs. Regularity:
CRNAs in locum work often enjoy the independence of being independent contractors, while PRN work may offer a balance of flexibility and potential for consistent shifts within a single facility.

Travel Considerations:
Locum work frequently involves travel to different locations, whereas PRN work may involve travel within a local area or region.

Both CRNA locum work and PRN work offer unique advantages and considerations. CRNAs should carefully assess their career goals, lifestyle preferences, and professional objectives to determine which option aligns best with their aspirations. Whether seeking short-term, independent assignments or flexible part-time opportunities, CRNAs can tailor their careers to meet the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare landscape.