RNs being drafted during World War 3

FLmomof5 · May 1, 2012

Really? Wow.

GitanoRN, BSN, MSN, RN · May 1, 2012

hypothetically speaking if you are referring to the conflict that denotes a successor to war world ii if so, i'm certain that it wouldn't be a problem for us nurses to be accounted for on behalf of our country. however, i'm a firm believer of not crossing the bridge till you come to it~

CrunchRN, ADN, RN · May 1, 2012

Since I do not have children I would be willing to step up for my country if needed. So many have before and I would be honored (and scared) to do my part.

Altra, BSN, RN · May 1, 2012

How do I feel about something very hypothetical?

The U.S. ended its draft in 1973 - reinstituting it would require action from Congress.

And how are we defining "the next world war"?

ckh23, BSN, RN · May 1, 2012

If it comes to that, I doubt you would be drafted as an RN. Doesn't matter to me, sign me up.

Silverdragon102, BSN · May 1, 2012

I volunteered for Desert storm back in 1991 and was a Enrolled nurses/LPN and went out to Saudi Arabia and would do it again if the need arises although I am a RN now

Catch22Personified · May 1, 2012

Give me a commission and I'll do it.

Flare, ASN, BSN · May 1, 2012

Historically, the US came very very close to enacting the Nurse Selective Service Act, but didn't have to thanks to our Grandmother and Great grandmothers stepping up and enlisting. It could theoretically come to that again if WWIII were to break out. However... it would probably be a last resort type thing like it was in the 40s.

If I were drafted as a nurse, I'd certainly serve my country.

Sacred eagle · May 1, 2012

I think it would be a great idea and for that matter considering that95 percent of all nurses are femalethat is the majority of who will go. I have already served my time ofover 6 years and 9 months and thus have completed my full obligation.

Rob72, ASN, RN · May 1, 2012

How do I feel about something very hypothetical?
The U.S. ended its draft in 1973 - reinstituting it would require action from Congress.
And how are we defining "the next world war"?

Basically every hospital in the US is part of (I can't remember the exact term, off the top of my head) a Federal, "Joint Service Use Agreement", where all healthcare facilities will/may be directed by FEMA and support each other, in times of mass-casualty/critical event.

So, while not legally "drafted", if you are employed in a hospital, your services may be required (by law) out of state or across the country. Generally, a, "call for volunteers", is put out, but the final legislative authority to "draft" care providers was completed after Katrina/NOLA.

Sparrowhawk · May 1, 2012

Didnt know we were planning another world war......