Flight Nurse

Updated August 5, 2023
by EveryNurse Staff

Table of Contents

What Is a Flight Nurse?
Duties & Responsibilities of a Flight Nurse
How to Become a Flight Nurse
Flight Nurse Salary and Job Outlook
Flight Nurse Jobs and Career Opportunities

Are you a registered nurse with a passion for adventure and a desire to make a difference in critical care situations? If so, a career as a flight nurse might be the perfect fit for you. Flight nurses play a vital role in providing medical care during air transportation of critically ill or injured patients. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the requirements, duties, and salary of a flight nurse, as well as the steps you can take to embark on this exciting career path.

What Is a Flight Nurse?

Flight nurses, also known as transport nurses, are highly skilled registered nurses who are trained to provide medical care to patients during emergency air transport. They work alongside a team of medical professionals, including paramedics and physicians, to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of patients to medical facilities. Flight nurses often work in high-pressure environments, dealing with critically ill or injured patients who require immediate attention and specialized care.

Duties & Responsibilities of a Flight Nurse

Patient Care and Monitoring

One of the primary duties of a flight nurse is to provide comprehensive and specialized patient care during air transportation. This includes assessing and monitoring the patient’s condition, administering medications, managing IV drips, performing resuscitation if necessary, and ensuring the patient’s comfort and safety throughout the transport.

Communication and Collaboration

Flight nurses work closely with other members of the medical team, including paramedics, physicians, and pilots. Effective communication and collaboration are essential to ensure seamless coordination and the provision of optimal care. Flight nurses must effectively communicate patient information, updates, and instructions to the team and maintain clear and open lines of communication throughout the transport.

Equipment and Supply Management

Flight nurses are responsible for managing and organizing medical supplies and equipment onboard the aircraft. This includes conducting regular equipment checks, ensuring the availability and proper functioning of medical devices, and restocking supplies as needed. Flight nurses must also monitor expiration dates of medications and supplies to ensure they are within their safe usage period.

How to Become a Flight Nurse

Educational Requirements

To become a flight nurse, you will need to meet certain educational requirements. Most employers prefer flight nurses to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, although some may accept an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). It is important to note that having a BSN can provide you with a competitive edge in the job market and open up more career advancement opportunities.

Licensure and Certification

After completing your nursing education, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your registered nurse (RN) license. This license is required to practice nursing in the United States. Although certification is not mandatory for flight nurses, obtaining certifications such as the Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) credential can enhance your resume and demonstrate your expertise in flight nursing.

Gaining Experience

Prior experience in critical care settings is crucial for aspiring flight nurses. Most employers require a minimum of three to five years of combined experience in the intensive care unit (ICU) or emergency room (ER). This experience allows you to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to handle high-stress situations and provide quality care to critically ill or injured patients.

Additional Training and Skills

In addition to experience, flight nurses should possess certain skills and qualities to excel in their role. These include excellent critical thinking and decision-making abilities, strong communication and interpersonal skills, adaptability to changing environments, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Familiarity with aviation and the ability to work well in a team are also beneficial for flight nurses.

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Flight Nurse Salary and Job Outlook

Flight nurses are highly skilled professionals who play a crucial role in critical care transport. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for registered nurses, including flight nurses, is $89,010. However, it is important to note that flight nurse salaries may vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer.

Job Outlook for Flight Nurses

The job outlook for registered nurses, including flight nurses, is promising. The demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to grow, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% employment growth for registered nurses from 2021 to 2031. This growth is on par with the average growth rate for all occupations, indicating a steady demand for flight nurses in the coming years.

Flight Nurse Jobs and Career Opportunities

Employment Settings

Advancement Opportunities

As flight nurses gain experience and expertise in their field, they may have opportunities for career advancement. This can include roles such as flight nurse coordinators, flight nurse educators, or management positions within air transport programs. Pursuing additional certifications and continuing education can also enhance career prospects and open doors to specialized roles within the field of flight nursing.