Which base for best nursing experience?

jeckrn, BSN, RN · Nov 10, 2009

Hello,
I am joining the Army as a RN. I head to BOLC Feb 1st. Because I have one year nursing experience they have requested that I chose from these bases
1. Fort Sill, Oklahoma
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> 2. Fort Polk, LA
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> 3. Fort Irwin, CA
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> 4. Fort Leonardwood, MO
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> 5. Fort Riley, Kansas
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> 7. Fort Campbell, Kentucky
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> 8. Fort Knox, Kentucky
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> 9. Fort Wainwright, Alaska
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> 10. Fort Benning, GA
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> 11. Fort Stewart, GA
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> 12. Fort Jackson, SC
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> 13. Westpoint
Any information on the size of the hosptials (not all the website tell that info), the type of patients they serve (mainly critical care, OB, etc) and the chances of deployment (ie: Campbell deploys frequently) would be EXTREMELY appreciated. Thanks a TON!

Most of these hospitals are small community hospitals. As far as deploying, for most nurses it is not the base they are assigned to but the unit. If you are not assigned to a deployable unit ie CSH, FST etc you will deploy as a PROFIS. By this you will fill slots in the deployable units. Also most nursing deployments are now 6 months BOG.

RedUmbrella · Nov 10, 2009

I'm just curious... did they say why those were your only options with 1 year of RN experience? Thanks!

MammaA · Nov 11, 2009

These hospitals need experienced RN's right now.

PeachRN2B · Nov 11, 2009

MommaA, when did your package go to the board? How long did it take before you got a yes or no answer? Congratulations on your decision to serve our country. I also want to become an Army Nurse.

MammaA · Nov 11, 2009

I started my process in February, had some medical and financial glitches and had to get some things cleared up for them, went to Board in July and was accepted. So it will be a full year by the time I head to BOLC, but it's worth it!

GOOD LUCK!

BrownBoiRN, BSN, MSN, DNP, APN · Nov 20, 2009

MommaA, did you have financial glitches that had to be resolved before being cleared for a security clearance, and before you went to Board. Or did you go to Board first and was accepted, and then when it came around for security clearance they required you to clear all financial obligations before allowing you to go to OBLC? I am asking because I have two credit cards outstanding totaling $700 and I am a new grad and don't have the money to pay it, but will as soon as I get in the Army. I am just hoping it doesn't stop me from obtaining a security clearance.

hopeful_army_NP · Nov 21, 2009

I am going in as CPT, 13 years nursing experience. I am also an Adult NP with a MSN. I was told to select 3 bases and that I would most likely get my 1st or 2nd choice. Well I got my 2nd- Ft. Stewart,GA. My 1st choice was Ft. Jackson, SC. So I wonder if they need experienced nurses why can't I or didn't I get Ft. Jackson. I will not go to OBLC until March. Does anyone know if there is a way to try to change the location or should I continue to be happy and leave it alone?