Becoming An Airport Nurse: Qualifications And Career Path

Flight nurses are an essential part of non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), providing critical care to patients during air transport. They are responsible for ensuring patient safety and comfort, operating medical equipment, assisting with emergency care, and performing first aid, among other duties. To become a flight nurse, candidates must first obtain a nursing degree and become licensed as registered nurses (RNs). This typically involves graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and passing the NCLEX-RN licensing examination. In addition, flight nurses require clinical experience in critical care or emergency nursing and may need specialty certifications. Prior flight experience and a valid passport are also advantageous, especially for international travel.

Education: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required to become an airport nurse

To become an airport or flight nurse, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required. This is a four-year degree that covers the basics of nursing care and how the body works, as well as teaching specialised critical thinking skills. It grants the title of registered nurse (RN) and allows for state licensure. While it is possible to become an RN with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), most flight nursing employers require a minimum of a BSN degree.

A BSN degree is also beneficial for future career advancement. The National Academy of Medicine announced a goal in 2010 for 80% of RNs to hold a BSN degree by 2020. By 2020, at least 65% of nurses held BSN degrees, but in 2023, the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey reported that number rose above 70%. A BSN degree is preferred by employers and provides a more well-rounded education experience.

After obtaining a BSN degree, aspiring airport nurses must then pass the NCLEX-RN Licensing Examination. This is a computer-based exam with 85 to 150 questions, covering four basic categories: Safe and Effective Care Environment, Health Promotion and Maintenance, Psychosocial Integrity, and Physiological Integrity. The exam takes one to five hours to complete, and results are sent out within six weeks.

Once a passing grade is confirmed, RNs may apply for a state license. Each state has different license application requirements, and aspiring airport nurses can find their state’s application process at the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Licensing: You must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain a registered nurse (RN) license

To become an airport nurse, also known as a flight nurse, you must obtain a registered nurse (RN) license by passing the NCLEX-RN exam. This is a crucial step in the process and will be the focus of this overview.

The NCLEX-RN, or the National Council Licensure Examination, is a comprehensive test that assesses your knowledge and skills in the field of nursing. It is designed to ensure that you have the necessary competencies to provide safe and effective patient care as a registered nurse. The exam covers a range of topics, including safe and effective care environments, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity. These topics are essential for providing holistic care to patients and addressing their diverse needs.

The NCLEX-RN exam is administered in a computer-based format, and the number of questions can vary between 85 and 150. The exam is typically completed within a timeframe of one to five hours. The flexibility in the number of questions and the duration of the exam accommodates the varied nature of the topics covered.

To prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam, it is highly recommended that you engage in dedicated study and utilize practice questions. Many aspiring flight nurses opt to enrol in NCLEX prep courses, which provide structured guidance and support to enhance your likelihood of success. These courses can offer valuable test-taking strategies and help you become familiar with the exam format.

Once you have successfully passed the NCLEX-RN exam, you will be well on your way to obtaining your registered nurse (RN) license. This license is a fundamental requirement for practising as a flight nurse and will enable you to provide nursing care in airport and flight settings.

It is important to note that the requirements for maintaining your RN license may vary depending on your state or country of practice. In most cases, you will need to renew your license periodically, and ongoing education or additional certifications may be necessary to stay up to date with the latest advancements in nursing practice.

By obtaining your RN license through the NCLEX-RN exam, you will be taking a significant step towards becoming a flight nurse and contributing to the health and well-being of patients in the dynamic and challenging environment of airport and flight nursing.

Critical care experience: Hands-on experience in intensive care or emergency settings is essential

Critical care experience is a crucial aspect of becoming an airport or flight nurse. This role requires hands-on expertise in intensive care or emergency settings to ensure the safety and well-being of patients during air transport.

Flight nurses face unique challenges due to the confined space and dynamic environment of an aircraft. They must possess the clinical skills to handle various medical situations, from treating trauma victims to managing severe illnesses. Therefore, gaining extensive experience in critical care settings is essential.

Aspiring flight nurses should seek opportunities in intensive care units (ICUs) or emergency departments (EDs). These settings provide valuable exposure to high-pressure and emergency situations, enabling nurses to develop the skills needed to make swift and effective decisions during flight.

In addition to clinical expertise, flight nurses must be adept at managing complex medical equipment, which is essential for patient care and monitoring vital signs. This equipment includes ventilators and other advanced airway management tools.

Furthermore, experience in an intensive care or emergency setting equips nurses with the ability to adapt to the physical and environmental constraints of an aircraft. High altitudes, noise, and vibrations can impact patient conditions and the delivery of care. Thus, hands-on critical care experience is vital for becoming a competent and confident airport nurse.

Overall, the intensive care or emergency setting experience is a fundamental prerequisite for aspiring airport nurses. It provides the clinical knowledge, technical skills, and ability to manage challenging situations, ensuring the safe and effective delivery of care during air transport.

Specialty certification: Some positions require certification in areas like Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

To become an airport nurse, you'll need to obtain a handful of specialty certifications, including Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). ACLS is a set of advanced life-saving procedures performed during cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. ACLS builds on Basic Life Support (BLS) techniques, which are also required for airport nurses, with more sophisticated interventions and procedures. The goal of ACLS is to stabilise critical patients who may have suffered a life-threatening event, such as cardiac arrest, acute coronary syndrome, or stroke.

ACLS certification is an advanced credential designed specifically for healthcare professionals, including nurses, who need to manage more complex medical emergencies. The training includes advanced airway management, IV access, medication administration, and electrical therapies such as defibrillation, cardioversion, and transcutaneous pacing.

There are several options available to obtain ACLS certification. The American Red Cross, for example, offers ALS/ACLS certification that can be completed through a combination of online work and hands-on training. Similarly, the Disque Foundation, in partnership with Save a Life by NHCPS, offers a free online ACLS course, followed by an in-person Skills Session. This course covers various topics, including normal heart anatomy and physiology, ACLS rhythms and interpretation, basic airway adjuncts, pharmacological tools, and early defibrillation.

It's important to note that while some airport nurse positions may require ACLS certification before employment, others may be willing to hire nurses without this specific certification but with equivalent critical care qualifications and experience.

Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills are vital for effective teamwork and patient interaction

Communication and interpersonal skills are of utmost importance for airport or flight nurses. They must be able to work effectively with other team members, including pilots, paramedics, physicians, and other medical providers, as well as patients and their families.

Clear and accurate communication ensures everyone understands their responsibilities and improves response times during emergencies. Building rapport with patients helps to ease their anxiety during transport, and effective teamwork is necessary when working with diverse medical teams.

Flight nurses must also act as liaisons, coordinating with the medical team and the airline staff. They plan pre-flight meetings to go over patients' medical records, medicine requirements, and other specific needs. They must also be able to comfort and reassure their patients, who may be feeling vulnerable or anxious about their trip.

In addition, flight nurses need to be able to adapt to the challenges of their work environment. This includes working in confined spaces with limited movement and access to equipment, dealing with the effects of high altitudes on patients, and managing noise and vibrations from the aircraft.

Flight nurses are responsible for the safety and comfort of their patients, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are vital to fulfilling this responsibility.

Frequently asked questions