Working environment

[dm22]

Just wondering what the culture in the military is like as far as how well physicians and nurses work together, and whether there is a greater degree of professionalism that is brought on by the addition of a superseding rank structure. For instance; there are Admirals who are nurses, pharmacists, and not necessarily just doctors.

The reason I am curious is that I have had the misfortune of experiencing a very difficult working environment in a civilian hospital as a nursing student. The hospital is owned by a physician group in which the culture seems to encourage disrespecting and mistreating the nursing staff. I can give specific examples but I think y'all get the picture. This hospital has had that reputation for a while, and they routinely have difficulty filling positions for RNs, so I know I am not the only one who notices this. I suppose I would work there if I had to, but I would rather have a better work environment. Just curious of what it's like in the Navy. Specifically I am headed to Pensacola in September, about to graduate from the Nurse Candidate Program.

[athena55, BSN, RN]

Hi dm22:

While I can't speak for the Navy, I can speak from the Army POV.

Still get the usual drama from the civilians.....But there is more structure, rank and respect from the Military side of the house. I have NEVER, EVER had a Military MD/DO have a hissy fit, throw things, or yell.

I know a few civilians complain about all the "perks" we Military are "entitled" to like....If the unit is slow usually the Military will be given "on-call" and sent home. But the down-side to that is: If the unit gets busy, the civilian can say, "sorry I've got to go home I have (kids, husband, parent) to take care of." Military are obligated to stay. Civilians get time and a half, sometimes double time for holidays. Military get straight time. Civilians are given the option of belonging to a committee (usually). Military do not have the option to say, "Gee, MAJ, I really don't want to be on such-n-such committee" Military are PCS-ed q 2-3 years. Military are deployed for 6 months or longer (and the dwell time is a lot shorter than the 5 year cycle that Reservists face). Military are told (not asked) to float to the cath lab, or the ED or where ever.

In the Army once you make CPT you are and can be an XO or OIC. Once you hit MAJ you will likely be made Head Nurse somewhere. As you climb the ladder, unfortunately, you get further away from the bedside.

Hey, good luck as you get closer to your goal of being a graduate nurse. This forum is an ideal place to gather up tons of information, networking and friendship!

athena