[mommy2BCD]

I am considering the AF. I am an Rn working in Neuro ICU. I would have the ICU identifier going in as I will have the >1 year requirement. I would want Wilford Hall. What are the chances? Also heard that this is a high deployment base (which I figured) but just wanted some others opinion on this. Also is there any chance to go to CCATT training right after COT or do you have to have time in service before that? Thanks ! Abby

[wtbcrna]

Originally Posted by abbyRNtobe

I am considering the AF. I am an Rn working in Neuro ICU. I would have the ICU identifier going in as I will have the >1 year requirement. I would want Wilford Hall. What are the chances? Also heard that this is a high deployment base (which I figured) but just wanted some others opinion on this. Also is there any chance to go to CCATT training right after COT or do you have to have time in service before that? Thanks ! Abby

There is always a really good chance of getting Wilford Hall especially as an ICU nurse. Wilford Hall is a high deployment base. It has a lot to do with its size and the amount of specalities there. Usually, you have to be at your base for at least a few months before you can get a CCATT school slot.

[Nole_Nurse33]

If you come in the AF with the ICU identifier (46NxE) you're almost guaranteed to deploy regularly regardless of your assignment location. Currently the AF has a shortage of E's and is really working hard to recruit and retain in this specialty ($$$). Example: In FY09 I will have the option to extend my commitment (initial 4yrs expires) as an AF ICU nurse for 4 more years and receive a $20k/yr bonus...yes $80k. The catch is that you do have to have your CCRN to qualify, but that's enough motivation to study and pass. I would imagine that if they are being this aggressive to retain ICU nurses then they must be beefing up the accession bonuses for ICU nurses as well. Money aside, I truly enjoy being an AF nurse and we're definitely given opportunities (travel, training, etc.) that a lot of our civilian counterparts are not.

[mommy2BCD]

I sent you a PM with further questions. I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks so much!



QUOTE=Nole_Nurse33;2766908]If you come in the AF with the ICU identifier (46NxE) you're almost guaranteed to deploy regularly regardless of your assignment location. Currently the AF has a shortage of E's and is really working hard to recruit and retain in this specialty ($$$). Example: In FY09 I will have the option to extend my commitment (initial 4yrs expires) as an AF ICU nurse for 4 more years and receive a $20k/yr bonus...yes $80k. The catch is that you do have to have your CCRN to qualify, but that's enough motivation to study and pass. I would imagine that if they are being this aggressive to retain ICU nurses then they must be beefing up the accession bonuses for ICU nurses as well. Money aside, I truly enjoy being an AF nurse and we're definitely given opportunities (travel, training, etc.) that a lot of our civilian counterparts are not.[/quote]