During peak seasons, such as flu season, summer vacations and holiday periods, per diem shifts can become available, and sometimes more stressful. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help you take advantage of these opportunities while maintaining balance in your life and career.

<p> If you’ve been working per diem for any length of time, you know the demand for healthcare professionals ebbs and flows throughout the year. During peak seasons, such as flu season, summer vacations and holiday periods, per diem shifts can become available, and sometimes more stressful. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help you take advantage of these opportunities while maintaining balance in your life and career.</p>

<h2>Why Peak Seasons Matter for Per Diem Professionals</h2>
<p>Hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities face unique staffing challenges during peak seasons:</p>

<ul>
  <li><strong>Flu and illness surges:</strong> More patients will visit hospitals and urgent care centers, requiring additional nurses, respiratory therapists and other healthcare professionals. </li>

  <li><strong>Holiday vacations:</strong> Permanent staff often take time off around Thanksgiving, Christmas and summer, creating staffing gaps.</li>

  <li> <strong>Census fluctuations:</strong> Certain specialties (such as pediatrics during winter or physical therapy during summer) see higher demand at specific times of the year. </li>
</ul>
</br>
<p>For per diem professionals, this means more opportunities to pick up shifts, diversify experience and increase income. </p>

<h2>How to Prepare for Peak Season Success</h2>
<h3>Stay Credential-Ready</h3>
<p> During busy times, facilities can’t wait on paperwork delays. Make sure your licenses, certifications, immunizations and compliance documents are up to date. Having everything ready ensures the opportunity to be first in line for available shifts.</p>

<h3>Be Flexible</h3>
<p> Facilities need coverage for nights, weekends and holidays which is, of course, when permanent employees may need time off. By being open to less popular shifts, you not only earn more but also become a go-to resource for staffing managers. As a per diem professional this may also be a win-win for you, allowing you to work around childcare or family schedules.</p>

<h3>Expect a Faster Pace</h3>
<p>Patient volumes rise during peak seasons, which often means heavier workloads and higher stress. Going in with realistic expectations helps you stay composed provide safe care, and avoid burnout.</p>

<h3>Take Care of Yourself</h3>
<p>With back-to-back shifts available, it’s tempting to overcommit. Prioritize rest, nutrition and downtime to maintain your energy and prevent fatigue-related errors. A healthy clinician is a safe and effective one.</p>

<h3>Communicate Clearly</h3>
<p>Whether you’re working through a staffing agency or directly with facilities, clear communication is key. Let schedulers know your availability well in advance and confirm shift details to avoid misunderstandings during hectic times.</p>

<h3>See It as an Opportunity</h3>
<p>Peak season work doesn’t just mean extra pay. Think of it as a chance to build relationships with new facilities, expand your skills in high-demand environments, and demonstrate your reliability. These experiences can open doors for future contracts or recurring per diem work.</p>
<p>Working per diem during peak seasons can be both challenging and rewarding. By staying organized, flexible and mindful of your well-being, you can maximize your earnings while making a meaningful impact when patients and facilities need you most. As we approach fall and the holiday season, Cross Country MSN has per diem (and local contract) opportunities in many cities nationwide. Let us know you are interested <a href="https://www.crosscountry.com/local/nursing?utm_source=Website&&&&utm_campaign=BLOG" target="_blank">here</a> and we’ll be in touch. </p>




What You Need to Know About Working Per Diem During Peak Seasons

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