Height & Weight requirements

[PocketSize, BSN, RN]

Anyone know if 4'10", 110lbs is too small for the job? I've seen a few posts saying it varies by program but I've done internet, FlightWeb and AN searches and all I've seen are posts discussing too tall/too heavy candidates.

Thanks for your input. A little background- new grad starting in a busy ED and would very much like to pursue flight nursing. I realize it takes many many years and tons of hard work :)

[LessValuableNinja]

I'm aware of maximum size allowable, but not minimum.

[Dobi]

My program does have a maximum crew member weight of 225lb's. All crew members must be able to load and unload a weighted gurney of 90 lbs in and out of our EC 145 and load and unload the stretcher into a boxed ambulance. Provided that you can accomplish those things I do not see a problem.

[RickyRescueRN, BSN, RN]

If you are able to meet the strength and physical requirements of the specific flight program (they usually post these on the vacancy listing) you will be fine. You have a good stretch of time to work towards the strength requirements so don't fret.

[PocketSize, BSN, RN]

Nice. Thank you for your responses. I worked as an ER Tech during nursing school and some patients were surprised I could lift them sometimes:yes:

The program I was looking at in TX had a swimming and hike/running component, which I'm excited about since I do all these as a hobby and love fitness in general.

Does anyone mind sharing how they became a FN? How many years did you work in the ED/ICU? I've read that many were EMTs/Paramedics before so i don't know if that would be a hold up for me.

[RickyRescueRN, BSN, RN]

Some states require one to have an EMT-P, but there are many that don't. (California being one). At the hospital based Flight program where I work, none of my colleagues were paramedics/ EMT's before starting to fly. We have RN's here with a minimum of 10 yrs experience in ICU typically before they got hired on into the Flight department. Some have ED experience , but the nature of our call profile requires ICU experience and qualifications , doing many high acuity ICU transfers (ECMO, Impella, LVAD, IABP, ICP/ ventriculostomy management and monitoring as well as patients on Nitric, Flolan etc etc. So ER experience in our setting has little to no benefit. All the nurses here have picked up the Scene call routine easily . I think the biggest bit to learn is Radio use, but with a good mentor/ preceptor you can learn this too , with time. I worked in the ICU (CCU, CV ICU, Trauma ICU, SICU) for 7-8 years before going full time as a Flight RN. As I stated before, you have many years to go before you need to worry about all this though . Get a good job and get good experience as that is what counts in terms of making you a safe and experienced, and clinically sound transport nurse. The cool factor wears off after a week...