Pediatric NP/age wavier chances

annabeap, MSN, APRN, NP · Aug 17, 2010

Well, I know a few folks that got an age waiver- some MDs, and a few nurses and a PA. I guess it depends on the needs of the AF.

A recruiter would be able to see where they need a PNP- if not for active duty, there's reserves. But every AF base will have a peds clinic. :)

Good luck!

lucy18 · Aug 22, 2010

I am a Pediatric NP for 10yrs now plus 15yrs PICU/Peds/NICU nursing experience. I have been considering AirForce nursing for a long time. The problem is I am 45yr old. Does anyone know the challenges of obtaining a age wavier. What are the chances of making this dream a reality? Are there any success stories out there that can give me some hope.
Thank you,

I am 46 yo and have started my packet for the reserves. I am a Master's prepared nurse with 22 years experience. There did not seem to be much hoopla about my age. I believe up to 47 for reserves with a waiver. I was told I could go forward with the processing from the Surgeon General. There are so many steps in the process, age is the least of the worries.

MEPS and the physical, interview process ,references and finally the nursing board for review. Once accepted you must complete commissioned officer training.

According to my recruiter experienced, advanced degree nurses are welcome. There is quite a large number of new graduates entering the airforce and they need proficient nurses who do not require extensive nursing training to do their job.

So jump right in!

jyoung3197 · Aug 22, 2010

Thank you,

Lucy18, where are you from. Which reserves are you considering? How are you training for the physical training requirements? Please keep me informed how your processing goes. I am very curious and wish you the best of luck?

lucy18 · Aug 22, 2010

I am from NYC, not exactly the military capital of the world. I have applied to the Airforce reserves and am hoping they accept me. I have hypothyroidism so that may require a waiver. I am wiating to hear if I can go for my physical.

As fas as any training, I try and go to the gym several times a week to ensure I am not over the weight limit for my height. The physical fitness test will not take place if and when I attend commissioned officers training which is age specific and includes running 1.5 miles, situps and pushups within 1 minute. I didn't want to get too involved in that until I get through MEPS. The process is quite long and involved so get started as soon as possible. Most blogs say about a year before commissioning.

Let me know how it goes for you.

jyoung3197 · Aug 23, 2010

What made you consider the AirForce? Did your recruiter give you info on what rank you will be entering as? I am working out and trying to increase my endurance because I've never been a runner. I am healthy and try exercise regularly, but the run is what worries me. My daughter is in the airforce. She just entered Nov 09, she loves it now. She just finished her training for medic/EMT.

I hope it all works out for you. I am going to talk with a recruiter soon.

Thanks for the info,

lucy18 · Aug 23, 2010

My husband was in the Marine Corp and knowing me he felt that the airforce was best for me based on their focus on education, service and family. I agree! The airforce values and mission suit me.

As for rank based, on education and experience the recruiter said most likely Major, but not lower than Captain.

I am glad you are going forward. What's the worst that can happen? You don't get accepted, but you must make the attempt.

Let me know how it goes.