In the world of locum tenens, there are always lessons to learn — things to do and things to avoid — and whether you’re new or a veteran of locum tenens, you know that temporary assignments bring their fair share of challenges and opportunities. 

Perhaps you’re a physician, nurse practitioner, or PA seeking flexibility, adventure, or a break from the grind of permanent jobs. Whatever your reason, success in locum tenens is not just about “being there”; it’s about mastering the keys of flexibility, planning, and relationship-building.

We’ll explore practical, real-world strategies that you can use to not only survive but also thrive in temporary clinical environments. 

1. Understanding the Locum Tenens Role

The word itself originates from Latin, meaning “to hold the place of.” In modern health care, it refers to clinicians who show up as temporary reinforcements — to cover for a vacation, a maternity leave, or a staffing shortfall. But here’s the thing: You’re not simply a stand-in. Even if it’s only for a short time, you are an essential member of the care team.

Why does this matter?

We need to change our minds when it comes to temporary placements. You are arriving into established workflows, teams, and patient populations with some time for acclimatization. To do this successfully in this area, you must be able to:

• Communicate clearly with staff and patients.
• Be humble and willing to learn the local etiquette.

 

In fact, in one survey from 2022, 85% of healthcare facilities take great care of their locum tenens providers on day one and appreciate providers who take a proactive interest in learning how things work at their facility. This small step will build trust so fast that it will save you from any errors.

Summary 

Locum tenens isn’t temporary staffing — it’s a gateway to seamless integration, collaboration, and dedication to patient care. Ask questions, look at the open loops, and seek synergies from day one.

2. Preparing for Your Assignment

You’re called to the closest rural hospital, but upon arriving , you find that they’re using an electronic health record (EHR) system you’ve never seen before. 

Showing up without the proper credentials and spending hours sifting through paperwork can be a major hassle. The good news is that with a bit of preparation, you can avoid these headaches altogether.

Here’s your pre-assignment game plan.

Research the Facility

• What EHR system do they use? Do not wait until you need logins for training.
• What demographic of patients are you targeting? (pediatric, geriatric, low-income, etc.
• How is the culture at the facility? A little LinkedIn sleuthing or a few minutes spent talking to the hiring manager can help a lot.

 

Pack Smart

• More scrubs, refillable water bottles, of course, and comfort items (noise-canceling headphones for flights, anyone?)
• You are hard copies/photocopies licenses, certs, and emergency contacts.

 

Preparation reduces stress and ensures you come out on top. Get used to the facility’s systems, pack for comfort and efficiency, and vet credentials. It will do you good in the future!

In fact a 2023 report showed that 78% of locum tenens clinicians who prepared rated their assignments as “highly satisfying,” compared with 42% who flapped their wings. Preparation is not just practical — it buoyed morale.

3. Building Relationships Fast

Here’s the truth: Starting a new job can be a lot like being a newcomer in school. However, in health care, where teams save lives, developing rapport quickly is non-negotiable.

How to connect when time is short::

• Introduce yourself to the world. Yes, even the front desk staff and janitors. A smile and a handshake can take you far.
• Ask for feedback. A simple “How does the team usually do X here?” shows respect for local experts.
• Be approachable. Share some of your background (what inspired you to do locum work, your hobbies) so people can put a human face to their interactions.

 

One NP I spoke to got a recurring gig just by showing up with _MF donuts on her first day. “It wasn’t the sugar,” she chuckled. “It indicated I was trying to be part of the community.”

Summary 

Trust is developed through humility, curiosity, and small acts of kindness. If you prioritize relationships, you’ll build allies who will help make your time in an assignment go far more smoothly—in addition to potentially inviting you back!

4. Mastering Flexibility Without Losing Boundaries

Flexibility is the number one reason for choosing locum work. But there’s a difference between being flexible and burning out. Let’s strike that balance.

Do

• Let people know right from the start what your availability is. If working nights is not an option for you, mention it at the contracting stage.
• Use downtime to recharge. Go for a walk, read, or call family and friends.
• Advocate for yourself. If a facility is overworking you, speak up early.

Don’t

• Gun-shy to accept last-minute schedule changes — unless you want to.
• Miss meals or sleep in order to “prove” your commitment.

 

Keep in mind that a study found that locum tenens providers who set limits reported 30 percent increased job satisfaction compared to those who didn’t. You’re not a robot; you’re a professional with boundaries.

Summary

Be adaptable but safeguard your health. By clearly communicating your needs, you can provide amazing care without compromising your own health.

5. Leveraging Technology to Stay Ahead

Let’s face it — technology can be a frenemy at times. One moment, it’s saving your life with a quick chart look-up; the next, it’s crashing while you’re mid-patient note. 

But in locum tenens work, tech is more than helpful — it’s your trusty sidekick. It’s like Batman’s utility belt: the right tools when you need them can turn chaos into calm. Here’s how to get tech to work for you, not against you:

EHR Shortcuts

Have you ever stared at a new, unfamiliar electronic health record (EHR) system and watched your soul leave your body? Same. But here’s a little secret: all EHRs have cheat codes. 

Request quick-reference guides or training videos from the facility before your assignment. Can’t get them? Check YouTube. In all seriousness, typing “Epic EHR tips” in the search bar could save you hours of clicking through menus. 

One locum doctor I know saved 20 minutes on her charting each day by memorizing three keyboard shortcuts for her system. That’s an extra 20 minutes to make coffee. Or naps. You deserve both.

Telehealth

Pandemic or not, telehealth is here to stay. Universities and work centers use platforms like Zoom for Healthcare or Doximity to consult, follow up, or even triage from your laptop. Picture finishing up a virtual visit while preparing for your next assignment flight—that is locum life magic. Pro tip: Do a test call with a friend first to avoid the classic “Can everyone see my screen?! ” panic.

Staffing Apps

Spreadsheets no longer need to be juggled for credentialing or hunted for assignments. Apps like StaffDNA allow you to search gigs, manage licenses, and communicate with agencies — from the grocery store checkout line. It’s like keeping a career manager in your back pocket.”

Password Managers
Raise your hand if you’ve ever forgotten a facility login and had to sheepishly, like, call IT for help (guilty). 

A password manager such as LastPass or 1Password keeps logins safe, so you can avoid that “Reset Password” tango. Bonus: You’re better off than if you’re using “Password123” for everything (you know who you are).

Summary
Technology is your friend, not a roadblock. Wrangle EHR hacks, lean into telehealth and hand the admin slog off to apps. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it.

Your Locum Tenens Journey Starts Now

Whether you’re new to locum tenens or a well-oiled machine, the tenets of how to maintain your energy remain ever-true: prepare, prepare, prepare; connect; and protect your energy. Temporary roles can be liberating and enriching — if you go into eating the experience with purpose.

Are you ready to be your next one? Explore StaffDNA’s locum tenens listings to review positions that align with your experience and aspirations. Here’s to your success — one assignment at a time!