Flight Nursing
What it Takes to Be a Flight Nurse
Flight nurses provide emergency care to patients while en route to a hospital via helicopter or aircraft. They help manage the patient’s treatment and safety and often aid in emergency evacuation and disaster situations as well. They are required to have at least five years of critical care experience before entering the field.
Preparation Path
Attain a BSN
Pass the NCLEX and become an RN
Work for at least five years in a critical care setting
Earn advanced certification (ACLS, NRP, or other)
Typical Tasks
- Aiding in the evacuation and treatment of victims of natural disasters, car accidents, or other emergencies
- Working with the in-flight critical care team to assess the patient’s condition
- Ensuring the patient’s treatment and safety during the flight to the health care facility
Employment Settings
- Hospital aircraft
- Corporate aircraft
- Military transport flights
- Government aircraft
Annual Salary Range
$78,810 – $99,720
Certification
RN, plus Critical Care Certification, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
Education Requirements
BSN
