Deployment preparation

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Specializes in Med/surg.

I started working as a navy nurse in October '06 and deployments have been popping up left and right. I haven't quite jumped on any yet, because I feel like I need to prepare a little more and have a few months worth of nursing experience before I decide to go overseas on a deployment.

I asked my dept head to set me up for C4 training later this year or early '08 and I'm trying to get into an ACLS class. Is there anything else I can do to try and prepare myself for deployments? I would like to volunteer for some after C4, but again, I'd like to be confident in my skills when I go.

Thank you!

p.s. I used to get on an ask questions prior to finishing school, so this is my first post since I actually became an RN and joined the Navy Nurse Corps. I'm so glad I did it and I love it! Thank you to everyone who answered all my questions before I signed!:lol2:

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Specializes in ER, Trauma, US Navy.

If you can't get C4, you can always just take TNCC somewhere. I never went to C4, but I've had TNCC for the last 10 years. I'd definitely get as many certs as you can, ACLS, PALS, TNCC, even ABLS if you can before you go. You're not always just taking care of the active duty folk so more the knowledge, the better.

LCDR(s) Dan

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Specializes in ER, Trauma, US Navy.

As I posted my reply, I realized it says you are in Silver Spring, MD, you still there? Are you stationed at Bethesda? I live in Charles Town, WV and the Mrs. is stationed at Bethesda. What floor are you on? She was an inpatient on 5C back in November.

LCDR(s) Dan

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I agree with Dan. Get as much experience as you can and any training that you can. Being a new nurse, you may be hesitant to do so, but in the long run, it will serve you well, and make you stand out from your peers.

If you need any advice on how to pack if and when you do get deployed, let me know. I have been back from the sandbox for almost 3 months, and the lessons that I learned, I wish I had someone that could have given me the ins and outs.

Take care.

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Specializes in Ortho, Med surg and L&D.
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If you need any advice on how to pack if and when you do get deployed, let me know. I have been back from the sandbox for almost 3 months, and the lessons that I learned, I wish I had someone that could have given me the ins and outs.

Take care.

Military Girl,

Thank you for that offer. Keeping it in mind.

Gen

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Specializes in ER,ICU and Progressive Care Unit,Peds.

So most of the time your command won't deploy you before they think you are ready, any how. They get lists from department heads and DIVOs of people that they think can be deployed. You don't have to have C4 or TNCC to be deployed. Especially, if you get sent on a deployment like mine (or mercy/comfort). I don't have either. But I do have my ACLS, PALS, and NNRP. Plus, I had over a yr on the floor. There hasn't been a time yet (knock on wood) that TNCC skills have been needed on my deployment.

If you have specific questions about life on a ship I sure can answer them for you. I learn more and more every day! Good luck and try to get as many certs in as possible.

ENS PM

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