Flight Certified Nursing Career Guide | Education, Salary, and Career Outlook

A Flight Certified Nurse, often referred to as a Flight Nurse, plays a crucial role in the field of medical transport and emergency medical services. These highly skilled professionals provide critical care to patients aboard fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters, ensuring stability and continuity of care from one location to another, often over long distances. As emergency responders, flight nurses are responsible for handling high-stakes, fast-paced situations, making this career both challenging and rewarding.

Flight nursing traces its roots back to military operations where evacuations needed efficient medical attention during transport. Over the years, this profession has evolved significantly, developing into a specialized civilian career path highly appealing to those passionate about high-impact, critical care nursing. For aspiring nurses looking for an exciting, diverse, and highly rewarding career, becoming a Flight Certified Nurse offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Education and Training

High School Preparation

While in high school, students interested in flight nursing should focus on subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics to build a strong foundation in sciences. Engaging in extracurricular activities, such as health science clubs or volunteering in hospitals, can also provide valuable experience and insights into the healthcare field.

Required Degrees and Certifications

To embark on a career as a Flight Certified Nurse, one must first become a registered nurse (RN). This typically requires completing an accredited nursing program, either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Most flight nursing positions prefer candidates with a BSN due to the comprehensive education it provides.

Upon obtaining an RN license, nurses must then gain experience in critical care, trauma, or emergency department settings. Many programs and employers require a minimum of 3-5 years in these rigorous environments.

Specialized Training Programs

Flight nurses undergo specialized training to prepare for the demands of aerial transport. Programs may include courses in aviation physiology, medical trauma management, and emergency protocols. These training sessions are often available through transport service providers or specialized educational institutions.

Licensing and Board Exams

After acquiring significant experience, aspiring flight nurses should aim to earn the Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) credential offered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). This certification demonstrates advanced expertise in flight nursing and is a vital step in becoming a Flight Certified Nurse.

Continuing Education

Given the rapid advancements in healthcare and technology, continuing education is essential for flight nurses. Attending workshops, conferences, and advanced training sessions ensures they stay updated on the latest practices and innovations in the field.

Summary of Key Education and Training Steps

Example Programs and Institutions

Reputable institutions offering flight nursing or related training include the University of Cincinnati, the University of North Dakota, and the University of Southern Mississippi, each providing specialized training and degree programs tailored to critical care and emergency services.

Skills and Qualities Needed

Essential Hard Skills

• Medical Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of emergency and critical care practices.
• Aviation Physiology: Understanding of how flying impacts physical conditions.
• Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS): Skills to address severe injuries in flight.
• Flight Safety Procedures: Proficiency in aviation safety and emergency protocols.

Essential Soft Skills

• Problem-solving Skills: Ability to make quick, informed decisions in emergencies.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to handle diverse situations and work in unpredictable conditions.
• Communication Skills: Excellent ability to communicate with patients and team members.
• Teamwork: Working effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team in high-stress environments.

Application of Skills in Real-world Settings

For instance, flight nurses utilize their problem-solving skills when stabilizing a critically injured patient during turbulent flight conditions. They must communicate effectively with pilots and medical teams to ensure the safety and care of patients while adhering to aviation protocols.

Salary

National Averages

The salary for Flight Certified Nurses can vary widely based on experience, location, and specialization. On average, flight nurses in the United States earn between $65,000 and $95,000 per year, with the potential to earn more with additional certifications and experience.

Salary Ranges by Career Stage

Factors Affecting Salary

1. Location: Salaries may vary significantly depending on geographic location, with urban centers typically offering higher wages.
2. Education Level: Nurses with advanced degrees and certifications are likely to command higher salaries.
3. Specialization: Further specialization in areas such as pediatrics or trauma can influence earning potential.
4. Employing Organization: Salaries can differ based on employer, be it a government entity, a hospital, or a private transport company.

Career Outlook and Job Help

Job Growth Data

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for registered nurses, including those specializing in flight nursing, is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, driven by advancements in medical care and the need for emergency medical services.

Common Employment Settings

Flight nurses are employed by a variety of organizations, including:

• Air ambulance services
• Hospital-based transport teams
• Government agencies and military units
• Private medical transport companies

Career Advancement Opportunities

Advancement opportunities abound for flight nurses, ranging from roles in management and education to specialized fields like pediatric air transport or international medical evacuation.

Tips for Job Seekers

• Resume Building: Highlight relevant critical care experience and any specialized training or certifications.
• Networking: Join professional organizations such as the Air & Surface Transport Nurses Association (ASTNA) to connect with industry leaders.
• Certification Renewals: Keep your CFRN and RN credentials current through continuous education and re-certification.

Final Insights

Pursuing a career as a Flight Certified Nurse offers a dynamic and impactful path for those passionate about delivering critical care in high-pressure environments. It is a rewarding profession that combines the thrill of aviation with the compassionate field of nursing, providing essential care to individuals in dire situations.

For students considering this role, the journey is challenging but ultimately fulfilling. Your efforts will not only advance your career but also make significant contributions to the field of emergency medical services. Embrace this opportunity to impact lives dramatically through professionalism and dedication to excellence in flight nursing.