- Nursing
- Nursing specialties
- Flight nurse
Flight nurse
A flight or transport nurse takes care of patients who are being taken to hospitals or trauma centers on civilian and military aircrafts.
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Required education
ADN, BSN or ASN
Out-of-hospital
Treat patients in their homes, during travel, or other non-hospital environments.
Fast-paced
React and make decisions quickly in demanding conditions.
Independent
Work on your own or even start your own practice, in some states.
What is the role of a flight nurse?
You’ll take care of patients on rescue flights, after car accidents and in other emergency situations so you’ll need to be able to make decisions quickly.
What you’ll do as a flight nurse
Treatment
You’ll provide medical care to patients who are often in a critical condition before, during and after air transportation.
What is the role of a flight nurse?
Flight nurses work in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Emergency rooms
- Helicopters
- Airplanes
How to become a flight nurse
Get an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.
Pass the NCLEX-RN.
The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.
Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining 3–5 years’ experience in critical care.
You may also need some certifications, including Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Transport Professional Advanced Trauma Course.
Become a Certified Flight Registered Nurse through the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing.
You’re ready to work as a flight nurse!
Flight nurse career resources
Become a member of a flight nurse organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
Air & Surface Transport Nurse Association
Air & Surface Transport Nurse Association
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An international nurse travels the world, taking care of patients in other countries and working in nations where their skills are needed most.