As a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), finding work-life balance probably feels like chasing a mirage. Yet, there’s a secret many CRNAs are turning to that helps them maintain professional dedication without sacrificing personal well-being: locum tenens. This role allows CRNAs to step in temporarily at healthcare facilities across the country for varying assignment lengths. Embracing locum tenens not only provides the flexibility to create a schedule that works around your life but also offers the refreshing change of scenery that can reinvigorate your passion for your career. Whether you're looking to fine-tune your work-life balance or just inject some flexibility into your routine, locum tenens might just be the answer you’ve been searching for.

How Does Locum Tenens Work?

In locum tenens, CRNAs fill in for absent staff for periods ranging from a few days to several months. They provide vital anesthesia services, ensuring patient care continues uninterrupted. It’s an essential role that supports healthcare facilities by complementing and filling any FTE shortages all year round.

5 Benefits of Locum CRNA

Here are some top benefits that come with being a locum CRNA:

• Flexibility: You decide when and where you work, tailoring your job to fit your life, not the other way around. This flexibility is key to achieving a CRNA work-life balance that suits your personal and professional life.
• Travel Opportunities: If you’ve got a case of wanderlust, locum work could be perfect for you. It’s your ticket to working across the country, or even internationally, experiencing new places and cultures while on the job.
• Higher Pay: Generally, locum tenens CRNAs earn about $30/hour more than their permanently placed peers. They also enjoy perks like paid travel and housing, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
• Professional Growth: Every new location is a chance to learn and grow. You’ll encounter different systems, techniques, and teams, expanding your professional horizons.
• Work-Life Balance: The ability to choose when and where you work helps many locums reduce stress and prevent burnout, enhancing overall job satisfaction and quality of life.

3 Common Locum FAQs

1. What Does 'Locum Tenens' Mean in Nursing?

"Locum tenens" is a Latin phrase meaning "placeholder" or "substitute." In nursing, it describes temporary roles filled by licensed nurses. These professionals might cover for others who are sick, on vacation, or fill a short-term need in a specialized area.

2. What Are the Benefits of Being a Locum CRNA?

Being a locum CRNA offers several advantages: you can enjoy a flexible schedule that allows you to choose when and where you work, competitive pay rates, and the opportunity to experience various healthcare settings and locations. Locum roles also support professional development and networking, making them a great way to balance your career with personal life.

3. Do Locum Providers Get Paid More?

Yes, locum providers typically earn a higher hourly rate than their full-time counterparts. This can vary based on their specialty, experience, job location, and the overall demand for their services.

Is Locum CRNA Right for You?

If you’re looking for a career that supports a balanced lifestyle, values flexibility, and offers the chance to see new places, locum CRNA work might be just what you need. It’s ideal for those who thrive on change and are eager to expand their professional skills in varying healthcare environments.

Tips and Advice for Incoming or Veteran Locum Tenens

Success in locum work comes down to a few key strategies:

• Choose a Trustworthy Agency: Partner with an experienced locum tenens agency like Caliber to find top-notch job opportunities.
• Sharpen Your Communication Skills: Clear communication is essential, especially when jumping into new teams and environments.
• Stay Organized: Keep your credentials and documents up to date to seize opportunities as they arise.
• Enhance Your Clinical Skills: Continuing education and adapting to new techniques will make you a standout candidate.
• Learn to Adapt: Be ready to meet each assignment's unique challenges and embrace the changes they bring.

Discover How Caliber Can Help

At Caliber, we specialize in placing healthcare professionals in locum tenens positions that fit their lifestyle and career ambitions. We handle the details, from finding the right position to supporting you through your assignment, ensuring you can focus on what you do best—caring for patients.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you navigate your locum tenens journey and achieve the CRNA work-life balance you’re looking for.