I’ve recently embarked on my first side hustle as a mobile IV nurse, and I must admit, it’s been quite lucrative.

Pros:

• I’m earning a high nursing rate along with tips.
• The IV company provides all necessary supplies.
• Travel is limited to a 20-mile radius, with optional further distances or substantial travel bonuses.
• The work itself is relatively straightforward.
• Biweekly, pre-tax earnings typically amount to $700, serving approximately 6 clients.

Cons:

• As a 1099 employee, you must diligently track your income for tax purposes to avoid a hefty tax bill. (I recommend mitigating this by paying quarterly taxes and setting up a SEP, a topic I’ll delve into in another blog post).
• Visiting clients’ homes may sometimes be uncomfortable, despite the majority having clean and welcoming environments.
• Access to a car is essential for commuting to clients within the designated radius.
• While companies typically require at least 24 hours of weekly availability, actual call-ins are infrequent.

Another crucial aspect of this job, which may seem obvious, is the need for strong IV skills. Backgrounds in healthcare and nursing vary, so not everyone has the same level of proficiency in IV and line placement. Fortunately, my extensive experience in the cardiac catheterization lab equipped me with the necessary skills, having placed numerous IVs daily.

Overall, this job has proven to be highly profitable, and I would recommend it. However, balancing it with other commitments can lead to burnout, especially when on call for 24 hours a week. That said, call-ins are infrequent, typically involving only one IV on weeknights and 3-5 on weekends