Military Nursing, what do you think or know?

BBingSN79 · Jan 9, 2006

Thanks to all who are considering serving.
The best way to get started is to contact an AMED recruiter and get started. Communication is not a commitment.
Look at all branches for they all do differnt things. For example Air Force has flight nurses if thats what you want.
Age should not be too much of an issue. Almost anything is waiverable witin reason. I re-enlisted at the age of 42 after an 18 year seperation of service. It took three waivers, a chapter 2 physical for over 40 yrs of age, an APFT, a background check and persistance. It can happen if you want it to.
Just be careful of what you want. Do not be dissapointed if you are deployed to a combat zone or other strife torn country, more than once even.
Oh yeah, and start working out....
11

I LOVE WORKING OUT! Hence the handle!:wink2: I'm definitely gonna go talk to some people, i.e. recruiters, fellow military nurses. I would love to serve my country and be able to travel on their nickel.

DapperRN · Jan 11, 2006

Thunderwolf, That's funny, I actually have a set of bagpipes (although it sounds like I'm beating a cat when I play them!) Thanks for the welcome!

dawg07 · Jan 11, 2006

To all the military, I retired from the Army as a 1SG 19Z5M..Armor/Reconnaissance. 22 yrs I was 43 yrs old, and went to school to be a Rn (ADN) class of 2004, and am now finishing my BSN with a goal of MSN FNP. So go for it. Currently the age for BSN active duty is 38, and as Wolf, corvette, and PSG noted..many regret never finishing a career. I didn't get a "paid for education" because of when I went in, but I got a lot of life experience that serves me well everyday. If you think you are too old, you can also work as a depart of the army/navy/air force civilian...just a thought. :cool:

sxybny · Jun 10, 2009

Well buddie, I'm a 32 year old first year nursing student and I couldn't be happier with where I am at, on these stepping stones to my career in the Canadian Armed Forces.

You are never to young or old to get an education, or change direction! :wink2:

CICU-NRS · Jun 10, 2009

In 1990 I got my BSN and went right into the Navy Nurse Corps as a new grad. It was the best decision I have ever made for myself. I am very proud of my short 4 years. Like it has already been stated...do your homework and visit all of the recruiters before you make your decision. Get EVERYTHING in writing, read all of the fine print. Back in "the day" they would take you on recruiting trips but I'm not sure they spend the money to do it now. It is also a good way to get the experience you need to get a job if and when you decide to go back to civilian nursing.

SAmilnurse · Jul 26, 2009

Hi Guys greetings from a South African military nurse, over here the Military Health Service is the fourth Arm of Service, so we work at our own AOS facility within their units.

Im currently working in a naval environment and am researching the role and fucntions of naval nurses. For many years nurses ahve not been allocated to vessels of the Navy. If any of you would like to share your experiences please dont hesittate to contact me.

Many thanks

sandnnw, BSN, MSN, EMT-B, APRN · Jul 26, 2009

The absolute best experience you'll ever get is in the military. It changed my life. By far, the quickest and cheapest method to "see the world." Perhaps the best patients to take care of and when you transition to civilian life, you can literally work anywhere. I loved the military healthcare system so much, I decided to remain at the VA, which has made me even happier. Any questions, ask away!

jimbo, O-5 (USAF, ret)

Redfoot · Aug 17, 2009

Go for it!

Just remember that the enlisted folk are a lot more well trained than the BS you will be fed at OCS. And be prepared for the expanded scope of practice.

-Redfot