What do Military Nurses Do?
Military nurses have a number of the same responsibilities as traditional nurses. However, they are not only educated in basic nursing skills, but they’re also trained on how to work with military patients and how to work in a military environment.
It’s not uncommon for military nurses to work right alongside military personnel in war zones. One of the most dangerous and difficult aspects of a military nursing career is caring for deployed members of the military during wartime. This often includes treating severe life-threatening injuries, such as gunshot wounds or lost limbs. Because of the severity of the injuries that they may encounter as well as the volatile work environment, military nurses must be able to keep a cool head under pressure. Life saving skills are also essential skills to have if you’re looking to pursue a military nursing career.
Military nurses also care for current and past members of the military and their families during peace-time as well. For instance, they may help soldiers that were wounded in the line of duty recover from their injuries. They may also treat patients suffering from common medical problems, ranging from the common cold to a sprained ankle to cancer.
Serving in the military is an extremely stressful job, to say the least. Because of this, military nurses must not only care for the physical needs of their patients, but also the emotional and mental well-being.
Where do Military Nurses Work?
Military nurses might work either at home or in foreign countries. The most common settings for military nurses include military bases, military hospitals, and clinics.