We all know that when it comes to side jobs for nurses, we’re not doing this job for free. Nursing doesn’t pay anywhere near what it should, considering everything we deal with. If you want to increase your income, a side hustle can be a great way to do that. In this post, I’ve put together a list of feasible side jobs for nurses. These jobs utilize the most transferable nursing skills and can help put some extra money into your pocket.
Why Nurses Should Consider a Side Hustle
One of the best parts about nursing is the schedule flexibility. Making it easier to fit in a side hustle. Whether you’re trying to pay off student loans, credit card debt or save up for that vacay, a side hustle can decrease your financial stress. The extra dough can also help you reach financial goals faster. Like saving for a down payment on a house or beefing up your emergency fund. On top of that, side hustles could give you the chance to explore new ways to make money outside of nursing.
How to Choose the Right Side Hustle
When choosing the right side hustle, consider a few important factors. First, flexibility is crucial—find something that works around your nursing schedule and doesn’t cause even more burnout. Next, think about your skill set and what side jobs for nurses can use your expertise. Also, make sure the juice is worth the squeeze. As in, make sure this side job is worth your time and energy.
Top Side Hustles That Utilize Your Nursing Skills
1. Nursing Clinical Adjunct Instructor
An adjunct nursing instructor teaches classes at nursing schools, either in a classroom or at clinical sites. These roles are typically offered on a semester-by-semester basis. You already have the necessary skills, and many programs offer flexible schedules.
Do you enjoy mentoring nursing students or orienting new nurses? A side hustle as a clinical adjunct instructor could be a no-brainer in earning extra income. With the high number of nursing students entering programs each year, this can be a reliable way to boost your earnings.
2. Per Diem Job
Per diem nursing is one of the most common side hustles for nurses. They work on an “as-needed” basis and fill staffing gaps in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.
Since you’re already a nurse, you likely have the skills required for a per diem job. These flexible positions usually pay more than a full-time nursing job—though higher pay comes without benefits. Working per diem in a different specialty can also be a good chance to explore other areas of nursing and try new interests.
3. Nursing Tutor
Did you enjoy nursing school and the courses that built your nursing base? Do you want to help support our future generation of nurses? With many nursing students seeking tutors, tutoring could be your perfect side hustle. Thanks to technology, you can now tutor online and set your own hours. This offers the big “F” (flexibility) that nurses need. You can also work for a tutoring company if you prefer.
4. Vaccine Nurse
Having considerable experience administering IM injections, a side hustle as a vaccine nurse can be easy money. Vaccine nurses are contracted by private companies, immunization clinics, or pharmacies to administer vaccines in community settings or for specific businesses. This side hustle is usually on an as-needed basis and is especially in demand during flu season.
5. Medical Surveys
Medical companies value nurses’ opinions because of our direct experience. Participating in medical surveys can be a rewarding way for nurses to provide their input while earning extra income. Many companies will pay for this valuable input. Making it a prime option for nurses looking to increase their pay. By sharing their knowledge through surveys, nurses can help advance medical practices and earn extra cash while doing it.
6. Concierge IV Infusion Nurse
Concierge IV infusion therapy is becoming very popular. These infusions offer treatments from vitamin boosts to hydration therapy. They meet almost any wellness need. Skilled nurses are essential for safely placing and administering these treatments.
Whether working in a specialized facility or joining a mobile IV business to visit clients at home, this role provides a unique side hustle opportunity. The flexible hours and ability to set your own schedule make it an appealing option for nurses seeking extra income or more control over their work-life balance.
7. Nurse Health Coach
A health coach can be the perfect sidestep for nurses looking to make more income. A health coach helps people reach their wellness goals. They provide guidance and support on their health journey. They also help clients create healthy habits, set goals, and stay motivated in their lifestyle changes. A health coach usually focuses on the emotional and mental side of the client’s health journey, offering support and accountability to clients.
8. ACLS/BLS Instructor
Many of us are already BLS or ACLS certified, so why not take it further and teach a course you’re already familiar with? Transitioning into this role is straightforward since you’ve already mastered the material. Plus, teaching can be a fun way to share your knowledge while making some extra cash.
Tips for Successfully Juggling Side Jobs for Nurses While Working Full-Time
Balancing a side job with a full-time nursing job requires solid time management. (Assuming you’re already good at this because you’re a nurse, duh.) You’ll want to make sure your side gig doesn’t interfere with your main job or personal life. Try to prioritize your side hustle to align with the interests you’re passionate about. That way, it’ll be more enjoyable and sustainable in the long run.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re looking to make some extra cash, explore new interests, or for more work-life balance, a nursing side job could be just what you need. From a nurse health coach to a clinical adjunct instructor, these side hustles are the perfect way to utilize the skillset you already have. Remember — your side job shouldn’t add to your burnout; it should be worth your time and energy. Got a favorite nursing side hustle? Drop it in the comments below.