One of the biggest advantages of a nursing career is flexibility. If you’re looking to increase your income, pay off debt, save for a major goal, or simply make the most of your days off, picking up extra shifts can be a great option.
In recent years, healthcare staffing apps have made it easier than ever for nurses to find available shifts without committing to a second permanent job. Instead of waiting for a staffing agency to call, nurses can browse opportunities directly from their phones and choose shifts that fit their schedules.
If you’re considering picking up extra work in 2026, here are some of the most popular platforms to explore.
1. ShiftKey
ShiftKey is one of the largest healthcare staffing platforms in the United States. It connects nurses, CNAs, and other healthcare professionals with facilities that need temporary staffing support.
The app allows users to browse available shifts, view pay rates, and select opportunities that work for their schedules. Many nurses appreciate the flexibility because they can decide when and where they want to work.
2. Clipboard Health
Clipboard Health is another popular platform for nurses seeking per diem opportunities.
The app focuses on helping healthcare professionals connect directly with facilities needing coverage. Users can often view available shifts, accept assignments, and manage scheduling through the platform.
Many nurses use Clipboard Health to supplement their primary income without taking on a traditional part-time position.
3. CareRev
CareRev allows nurses to pick up shifts at participating healthcare facilities while maintaining flexibility.
Instead of working for a single employer, nurses can browse openings and choose shifts that align with their availability. The platform is particularly popular among nurses who want more control over their schedules.
4. Nursa
Nursa has grown significantly in recent years and connects nurses with facilities looking for temporary staffing support.
The app provides opportunities in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, and other healthcare settings. Nurses can often select shifts based on location, pay, and schedule preferences.
5. IntelyCare
IntelyCare offers per diem nursing opportunities while providing scheduling flexibility.
Many nurses use the platform to fill gaps between shifts or increase monthly earnings. The ability to choose assignments directly through the app appeals to healthcare professionals seeking greater control over their work schedules.
6. Vivian
Vivian is known primarily as a healthcare career marketplace, but it also helps nurses explore travel, per diem, and contract opportunities.
The platform allows nurses to compare positions, compensation packages, and job requirements across multiple employers and staffing organizations.
7. Gale Healthcare
Gale Healthcare specializes in connecting nurses and nursing assistants with open shifts at healthcare facilities.
Many users appreciate the straightforward process for finding available opportunities and accepting shifts through the mobile app.
As you begin picking up additional work, organization becomes increasingly important. Balancing your primary job, extra shifts, personal life, and career goals can become challenging without a system in place.
8. Trusted Health
Trusted Health is best known for travel nursing, but many nurses use it to explore flexible contract opportunities as well.
The platform focuses on helping nurses manage their careers while providing transparency around job details, compensation, and employer expectations.
9. Facility-Specific Staffing Apps
Many hospitals and healthcare systems now have internal staffing platforms that allow employees to claim open shifts directly.
If you’re already employed, check with your employer to see whether internal scheduling technology is available. These opportunities can sometimes offer additional pay incentives while allowing you to work within a familiar environment.
What to Consider Before Picking Up Extra Shifts
Extra income can be beneficial, but it is important to be realistic about your limits.
Working excessive hours can lead to fatigue, burnout, and decreased job satisfaction. Before accepting additional shifts, consider your physical health, sleep schedule, and recovery time.
The most successful nurses approach extra work strategically rather than accepting every available opportunity.
If your goal is increasing income long term, learning about different nursing career paths can also help.
Conclusion
Apps have made it easier than ever for nurses to find flexible work opportunities and earn additional income. Whether you’re interested in per diem shifts, PRN work, contract assignments, or travel opportunities, there are platforms designed to help you find work that fits your schedule.
The key is balancing financial goals with personal wellbeing so that extra income supports your career rather than contributing to burnout.