COMtnRN

Thank you jfratian so much for answering my questions! Should I apply once I reach my 6 months mark since it takes about 6 months for the application process? Or would you recommend to start the application process once I reach 1 year ICU? Why would you reccomend for me to get the CCRN before I apply? Are you currently a nurse in the military?

I have a few questions regarding joining the military as an RN. I want to join to be able to serve my country, as well as, serve the troops who have served our country. I have already talked to a recruiter, but I wanted to see if I there was someone on here that is currently an RN in the Air Force or Army and could offer some advice. Background on me: My first bachelor's degree is in Biochemistry and then I went back to school for my BSN. Both degrees I have very high GPAs, one of which, I graduated top of my class. I worked on a Medical Surgical Oncology unit for my 1st year out of school and I just recently transitioned to the ICU. By the time I would be going into the military, I would have about a year of experience in the ICU. 1. Would you recommend going into the Army or the Air Force as an RN? Why? My end goal is to become a CRNA so is it easier to get into CRNA school in the Army or the Air Force? 2. What is the likelihood that I would get an ICU position in the Air Force? Even if I apply to the ICU position could I be placed on a med surg floor? 3. How long does the application process usually take? 4. How likely is it to be accepted into the Army or the Air Force as a nurse? Do most people have to apply multiple times before getting in? 5. Wound I be ranked as a Second Lieutenant to start? I'm not from a military background, so what would this entail? 6. Can critical care nurses possibly go to any Army or Air Force base or are there only certain bases for critical care nurses? 7. Can your first assignment be over seas? What are the chances? 8. Would I be able to get my CCRN in the military? 9. Are there only 2 schools for active duty Army or Air Force nurses to attend CRNA school? (USUHS and USGPAN) Is it more likely for Army or Air Force nurses to be accepted? 10. Are the CRNA schools for military very difficult to get into? Do you know the statistics? 11. Is there a difference in pay between med surg and critical care nurses? Pay is not the reason I am joining the military, I already know that they are usually paid less than civilian nurses. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions!