Education and Experience
Army nurses are required to have a bachelor's degree in nursing. This degree may be obtained before being commissioned, or you may join the Army ROTC in college, receiving benefits as you complete your degree and pursue your registered nursing license. Most positions within the Army also require nurses to have at least one year of supervised experience or take a course in public health nursing. All nurses must also be licensed as an RN.
Additional Training
Instead of traditional boot camp, all Army Nurses attend a basic officer leaders course. The course lasts 10 to 14 weeks and takes nurses through basic Army skills, the Army healthcare system and other job requirements. Those who choose to become an Army nurse through the ROTC program attend a nurse summer training program every summer where they work and receive additional training in an Army hospital.
Physical Requirements
Army nurses must meet the same physical requirements as all Army members. This includes meeting the height and weight standards and being able to pass a physical. Nurses are also required to take a physical fitness test every six months, which includes running 2 miles, push ups and sit ups. The exact physical requirements vary by age. All Army nurses must be between 21 and 42 years old.
Time and Travel
Being an Army nurse requires making at least a three-year commitment to serve. Most nurses are stationed in a new place every three years. There may be additional travel to help with emergency situations as they arise. Most nurses are stationed in larger military or other government facilities, although some may be serve in more makeshift facilities as they travel with specific units. As a nurse, you earn 2.5 days of vacation a month, but there may be restrictions on how much time you can take off at a time or how far you can travel. This may mean giving up holidays with family members or missing special events.
Personality and Passion
Becoming a military nurse requires having a commitment to your country and having a passion for service. While many nurses face stressful conditions, Army nurses must be able to handle extremely stressful conditions and, at times, be able to work in hazardous environments. Leadership skills are also a must for Army nurses, as they are officers in the Army and must lead a command. The Army provides training to help nurses develop leadership skills as well.