Interested in becoming a Military Nurse

Specialties Government

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Hey guys

So I am currently a senior at the University of South Florida and I am starting my applications for an Accelerated Nursing Program. I am interested in becoming a military nurse in either branch but I have some questions. I am really interested in focusing on maternal and child health and am wondering if the military has any demand of nurses who "specialize" in women's health.

In addition to this, I have been hearing mixed messages as to whether or not military nurses have to do basic training. Since I still have a few years to go, I know it does not really make sense to contact a recruiter so Im reaching out to you all for some insight. Also, is the government really selective on nurses they choose to "enlist".

Lastly, I know military nurses get sign on bonuses and debt forgiveness, but I am wondering if you all know how long that takes to kick in.

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I think it's in your best interest to contact a medical recruiter from the branches... criteria always changes each year.

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Specializes in Adult Critical Care.

L&D and pediatrics is looking like it's 'out of style' for military nursing these days. Stuff like that, which doesn't really have a directly correlating deployed mission, appears to be on the chopping block and isn't being strongly recruited. For example, the AF currently deploys L&D and NICU nurses as med-surg nurses; pediatrics doesn't even have it's own specialty code. The current plan seems to be to transition many of those people to civilian jobs.

Nurses go to officer basic training, which is much more relaxed than enlisted basic training. Nurses commission as officers. They do not enlist. It is very competitive, especially for new grads.

If loan repayment or accession bonuses are available, they get paid out shortly after you arrive at your first base. That's after you get through your ~8 weeks of officer basic.

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Specializes in NP / USAFR Flight Nurse.

I would begin by reaching out to recruiters in your area. Do some serious research as branches vary. I am commissioning in the USAF reserves and there is only one recruiter who does medical in this area (Tampa Bay). You could start by reaching out to Ssgt Alex Asencio 813-523-8864

Nurses (BSN and higher) go to Officer school, not basic training. For the Air Force, this is an 8 week course at Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, AL. Once you complete Officer training, there is other training required. It is dependent on your job. Flight nurses attend flight school, SERE, medical, etc. Its approx 9 mo of training all together.

Be patient though, the process is VERY long. I have been at it for 2 years and just completed my flight physical and am waiting for the Surgeon General to sign my waiver (heart murmur) before I can swear in. Even after that, I have to wait a few more months before going to Officer training. The selection is competitive and they will want to know every detail of your life, health history, and career experience.

Good luck!!

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Danish,

Hi, I am wondering how the process has gone for you?

 

Thanks

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Specializes in NP / USAFR Flight Nurse.

Hi!  Great...long...LOL

I commissioned in Feb, began drilling in June, and finally got my dates for TFOT (officer school) for Jan!  

Be prepared to hurry up and wait, but its very worth it.

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OK, thank you for the update.

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Hey, Ohwhyshai

 

Its been a couple year but I wanted to see how things are going? Are you still wanting to go into the military after graduation? if so which branch are you looking at?

Asking because Im in the same situation, although I am hoping to get into the SPC nursing program instead of USF (I heard they were all online right now).

 

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