Flight nurse

Flight Nurse

A Flight Nurse is a Registered Nurse (RN) who specializes in the field of aeromedical evacuation, providing critical care to patients during air transport. Flight nurses are an integral part of air ambulance services, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients who need to be flown to medical facilities for emergency or specialized care. They work in various settings, including helicopters, propeller aircraft, and jets, which are equipped as mobile intensive care units (ICUs).

Roles and Responsibilities

The primary role of a flight nurse is to provide comprehensive nursing care to patients during aeromedical evacuations. Their responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Assessing patient conditions and planning care in coordination with other medical team members.
• Administering medications, performing advanced life support interventions, and using medical equipment to monitor patient conditions during flights.
• Collaborating with pilots and other crew members to ensure the safety and comfort of patients during transport.
• Preparing patients and their families for the aeromedical evacuation process, including explaining procedures and addressing any concerns.
• Documenting medical care provided during flights and communicating with receiving facilities to ensure a smooth transition of care.

Education and Training

To become a flight nurse, one must first become a registered nurse, which requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). After gaining experience in critical care or emergency nursing, nurses can pursue additional training in flight nursing. This often includes completing a flight nurse certification program and obtaining certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Basic Life Support (BLS). Some flight nurses may also pursue certification as a Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) through the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN).

Challenges and Considerations

Flight nursing presents unique challenges not found in traditional nursing roles. These include:

• Working in confined spaces and adapting to the physical demands of caring for patients in an aircraft.
• Managing care in an environment where conditions can change rapidly due to weather, altitude, and other factors affecting flight.
• Communicating effectively with the flight crew and ground medical teams in high-pressure situations.

Employment

Flight nurses are employed by hospitals, government agencies, and private companies that operate air ambulance services. Employment opportunities may vary based on geographic location, with more positions available in regions with large rural areas or where access to medical facilities is limited.

Conclusion

Flight nurses play a critical role in the healthcare system, providing life-saving care to patients in transit. Their expertise in critical care, combined with specialized training in aeromedical evacuation, makes them invaluable in ensuring patients receive the best possible care during air transport.