Military Nurse: Career, Training, & Certification

Military Nurse

There is a constant need for nurses in the military, both during war and times of peace. This can be a fulfilling way to serve one’s country while receiving money for further education, according to proponents. Military nurses can expect to be trained in critical care as well as general medical procedures, and can be expected to subscribe to a holistic nursing philosophy. This means that all aspects of health care will be covered in training, to cope with whatever situations may arise either at home or in the field.
 
Salary Outlook
 
Enlisted nurses not only receive the salaries listed but also are privy to other benefits that include free housing and food allowances, which are not factored into the following numbers. Officers will receive a higher pay grade, so the overall pay range can vary quite a bit taking this into consideration.
 
Average Annual Salary
$34,500
 
Salary Range
$14,400-$78,000
 
Work Environment
 
The work environment for military nurses can change drastically depending on whether or not it is a time of war or peace. Military bases often have their own clinics, which is where most nurses will find themselves. They may have to undergo field operations in stressful war zones, or in flight services to rescue fallen soldiers. For the most part, they will operate under the cover of a base, as the home to other soldiers.
 
Requirements
 
Military nurses must meet a separate set of requirements in addition to the standard medical training that is required of other nurses. To obtain an appointment as an Officer, they must pass fitness, medical, and moral standards of the position. This is in addition to being a US citizen, obtaining a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Nursing, and having their RN license that is current and valid. Most must be within 21-42 years of age for active duty, and pass a security clearance. Those who are in the army already can undergo nursing training at the expense of the army, which is one of the major benefits of joining for some people. The degree requirements in this case must be completed within 24 months of beginning the course work. 
 
Career Outlook
 
The military is always actively recruiting nurses, with a huge portion of the government’s budget going to this field. As such, the need for military nurses remains high, particularly in times of conflict such as at the moment. After training in the military, it’s possible to find civilian nursing positions afterwards, with a fairly guaranteed rate of success.
 
Professional Organizations
 
Federal Nurses Association
8515 Georgia Ave.
Suite 400
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (301) 628-5333
www.fedna.org
 
Army Nurse Corps Association
PO Box 39235
San Antonio, TX 78218-1235
Phone: (210) 650-3534
Fax: (210) 650-3494
www.e-anca.org