So here's the kicker....

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Specializes in Emergency, Trauma, Critical Care.

When I was 18/19, I attempted to join the navy, and unfortunately, due to still having a small ventricular septal defect, I was rejected. Last year, I had a son, they did a echo, and now the ventricular septal defect is closed.

I'm an RN, BSN 2 and 1/2 years of Critical Care experience. Think there's any chance of a waiver, especially since the problem no longer exists?

Air Force said don't bother, they have more applicants than they care to deal with.

Just curious about the navy or army.

Thank you!

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Specializes in Psych, Maternity, ER, Ortho.

If it's what you truly want to do, don't let FY limitations stop you. The only way you're really going to know is go through with the process. Everyone has opinions, it's only the final word that matters. Find a recruiter who will work with you, tell them your concerns and get cleared through MEPS early.

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Specializes in Psych, Maternity, ER, Ortho.

I also just wanted to add: If there is a chance that you can get a waiver based on that information, you're going to need all of your clinical documentation for MEPS.

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You should at least try. I have some medical issues that may end up disqualifying me (I am waiting for approval to have the physical at MEPS, getting my records took forever...). I first talked to the Navy, and that recruiter was not very helpful, he never even called me back. I am currently working with an Army recruiter for the Nurse Candidate Program, and she has been great. I told her about the Navy recruiter, and what she told me is that it is not up to the recruiter to disqualify you. She told me you really just don't know what they may issue waivers for. If you don't at least try you will never know!

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Specializes in Emergency, Trauma, Critical Care.

Thanks guys! I think it's just finding a recruiter who will make the effort. I had one that actually did once. I know the Air Force probably won't happen. But I will try to talk to a navy recruiter and see. Right now I'm seeing if I can get a job at the local VA, if not, then I will definitely be pursuing it. Just don't want to waste anyone's time if it's a definite impossibility.

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