Officer
Work Environment
Field nurses work in hospitals and clinics. Some work in sick bays aboard ships or in mobile field hospitals. Others work in airplanes that transfer patients to medical centers.
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Military Status
Officer
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Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$88,849
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
$31,268 - $259,571
Overview
Some registered nurses may work exclusively in the field. These nurses are not only trained in emergency medicine, but also have expertise specific to the deployed environment. For example, flight nurses must be trained in altitude physiology as they provide medical care during flight. Flight nurses serve as air crew members, provide aeromedical evacuation for combat casualties, administer emergency care, and treat flight related conditions.
Military Training
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for field nurses primarily consists of classroom instruction, conferences, demonstrations, and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:
- Practices and principles of military nursing
- Care of emotionally-disturbed patients
- Healthcare for children
- Nursing techniques
- Anesthesia, respiratory therapy, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Helpful Attributes
- Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely
- Desire to help others
- Self-confidence and the ability to remain calm under pressure
Related Civilian Careers
- Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
- Critical Care Nurses
- Nurse Midwives
- Registered Nurses
- Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses
- Clinical Nurse Specialists
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