Question about DQ conditions

Whispera, MSN, RN · Jul 29, 2015

DQ ... what's that? Dairy Queen?

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Jul 29, 2015

DQ ... what's that? Dairy Queen?

I think disqualification in this case

morgan_porgan · Jul 29, 2015

I just went to MEPS last week and while there (not sure how true this is) but the Chief Medical Officer there said to not lie about any preexisting condition because if they find out about it while you're in the military, it can mean dishonorable discharge and loss of money. But he said that most conditions they are able to get a medial waiver for except if you're nuttier then squirrel ****, then you're SOL lol

TnRN43 · Jul 29, 2015

Well I don't have a thing to worry about when it comes to lying-the recruiter has 15 years worth of my medical records, lol. I did list both conditions on my workbook. I just saw somewhere that someone said migraines/headaches were a DQ. I could see it if they were only controlled with prescription meds, but my migraines are only 1 every 3 or 4 months and the tension headaches, which are daily, I take excederin. Just wanted to see if anyone else had any other input.

Dranger · Aug 1, 2015

I think you would more difficulty with an age waiver being 46.

TnRN43 · Aug 1, 2015

I think you would more difficulty with an age waiver being 46.

Actually I don't need an age waiver. The max age is 48.

Editorial Team / Moderator · Aug 2, 2015

Hi!
I am applying to the Oct AF Nurse board and have a question. Does anyone have any experience with DQ conditions? The only things I have on mine medical history that could cause a problem are hypothyroid (controlled) and headaches. I have chronic tension headaches and occasional migraines (no meds taken to control these). Has anyone had to deal with either of these issues and if so, what was the outcome?
Thanks!

Both are disqualifying conditions - including headaches that are recurrent, even if treatable. The military is really drawing down and waivers may be difficult to obtain at this point. Are you certified in a specialty? That can definitely help. The military has so many more applicants than positions, so they can be very picky. When do you go to MEPS?

TnRN43 · Aug 2, 2015

I will be taking my med surge certification exam soon, so I will have that. I also have bls and acls. We don't go to mess now until we are selected so I wouldn't go until October at the soonest.

jeckrn, BSN, RN · Aug 3, 2015

Even if the max age is 48 and you are 46 it will be a big strick against you. Because the nature of the military in general, not just nursing a mid 20 year old vs a mid 40 year old is a better fit. Not to say you will not get pick up at 46 but it will be very difficult.

Dranger · Aug 4, 2015

Actually I don't need an age waiver. The max age is 48.

Well a few years ago it was 42 without a waiver so I don't see how with recruiting getting more restricted a 46 year old with 2.5 years M/S experience would get boarded. I understand requirements flux but you have to be realistic. Literally I know multiple 20 somethings with a few years of specialty experience and certs (CEN CCRN) who were rejected multiple times even for reserves. At least for the Army, I have never heard anyone caring about the M/S cert. Maybe you have a shot at reserves but your chance for AD is very very small.

I am speaking from an Army perspective which is why the age issue might be different but the mantra for all branches is the same. If you were a psych NP or CRNA with 20 years experience that would be a different situation entirely. Not to be ageist or anything but what do you have to offer over a 25/26 year old with equal experience that could put 20 years in without difficulty? The folks who look at your packet will be asking the same thing.

Then with your medical DQs it makes the situation even more precarious.

TnRN43 · Aug 4, 2015

Well a few years ago it was 42 without a waiver so I don't see how with recruiting getting more restricted a 46 year old with 2.5 years M/S experience would get boarded. I understand requirements flux but you have to be realistic. Literally I know multiple 20 somethings with a few years of specialty experience and certs (CEN CCRN) who were rejected multiple times even for reserves. At least for the Army, I have never heard anyone caring about the M/S cert. Maybe you have a shot at reserves but your chance for AD is very very small.
I am speaking from an Army perspective which is why the age issue might be different but the mantra for all branches is the same. If you were a psych NP or CRNA with 20 years experience that would be a different situation entirely. Not to be ageist or anything but what do you have to offer over a 25/26 year old with equal experience that could put 20 years in without difficulty? The folks who look at your packet will be asking the same thing.
Then with your medical DQs it makes the situation even more precarious.

Wow. Well. I am well aware of the draw backs, the unbelievable competition, the strict selection guidelines and all the other discouraging details. Thank you. Very much. I'm well aware that my chances are beyond slim and that most others will have 'more to offer'. I am completely realistic about every single bit of this. And yes. The age varies from branch to branch. And for commissioned nurse officers, it is 48. I am giving this one shot everything I have. If I don't make it, I walk away with no regrets. Period. I posted to simply ask about DQ on 2 things that pertain to me. But I absolutely appreciate your reality check and the sincere encouragement. Thanks.