Flight Nurse
A flight nurse provides critical care to patients being transported by air ambulances or other aircrafts. They work in fast-paced environments where quick decision-making and medical expertise are essential.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Flight Nurse
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Junior Flight Nurse, you will provide comprehensive care to patients during aeromedical evacuations and rescue operations. Working in tandem with flight paramedics, pilots, and other medical staff, you'll ensure a safe and clinically sound environment onboard fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters.
Required Skills
- Strong clinical skills and judgment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work well under pressure and in high-stress situations.
- Good time management and organizational skills.
- Physical stamina and ability to handle heavy lifting when necessary.
Qualifications
- Valid nursing license.
- Associate's or bachelor's degree in Nursing.
- ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) certification.
- PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) certification, preferred.
- Ability to pass a rigorous physical fitness test.
- Must be able to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Responsibilities
- Assess and stabilize patients during air transport.
- Collaborate with medical teams to prepare patients for flight.
- Monitor patients' vital signs and administer medications as necessary.
- Assist in the loading and unloading of patients while ensuring their safety.
- Maintain communication with ground medical facilities regarding patient status.
- Keep accurate patient records and document all medical care provided.
- Participate in continuous education to stay current with best practices in aeromedical care.
- Ensure all medical equipment onboard is functional and properly stowed.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
Seeking a dedicated Flight Nurse to provide comprehensive in-flight medical care and emergency treatment to patients during aeromedical evacuations and rescue operations. The ideal candidate will have robust clinical skills, experience in critical care or emergency nursing, and the ability to adapt to the unique challenges of the aviation environment.
Required Skills
- Strong clinical skills with an emphasis on patient assessment and emergency interventions.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, essential for team coordination and patient interaction.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to swiftly handle medical emergencies.
- Familiarity with aeromedical procedures and aviation safety principles.
- Capability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Knowledge of electronic medical records (EMR) systems and documentation practices.
- Physical stamina and the ability to handle lengthy flights and lifting patients if necessary.
Qualifications
- Current and unrestricted Registered Nurse license.
- 2 to 5 years of experience in critical care or emergency nursing.
- Certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Basic Life Support (BLS).
- Completion of an accredited flight nurse training program is preferred.
- Ability to work in a high-stress, fast-paced environment.
- Excellent physical condition to perform tasks in the challenging flight environment.
- Current passport or ability to obtain one for international assignments.
Responsibilities
- Provide high-quality medical care to patients during air transport, including assessment, triage, and treatment.
- Collaborate with pilots and other flight crew to ensure patient safety and compliance with aviation regulations.
- Manage medical emergencies and implement life-saving interventions according to clinical protocols.
- Maintain complete and accurate medical documentation and patient records.
- Participate in pre-flight planning and safety briefings, and aid in the decision-making process for patient transport.
- Educate and provide support to patients and their families regarding medical needs and care during flight.
- Conduct equipment checks and ensure the in-flight medical kit is stocked and ready for emergencies.
- Stay updated on advancements in critical care, emergency medicine, and flight nursing practices.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
A Flight Nurse is a specialized healthcare professional who provides critical care and emergency medical services to patients during air transport. This role requires extensive experience in critical care nursing, the ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations, and experience with in-flight medical equipment.
Required Skills
- Advanced clinical skills with a focus on critical care and emergency procedures.
- Highly organized and capable of performing multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills, particularly in high-pressure situations.
- Excellent physical stamina and the ability to handle extended shifts.
- Familiarity with aeromedical physiology and in-flight medical considerations.
- Ability to operate and troubleshoot in-flight medical equipment.
- Knowledge of aviation safety and emergency protocols.
- Cultural sensitivity and the ability to provide care to a diverse patient population.
Qualifications
- Valid Registered Nurse (RN) license, with a specialty certification in flight nursing preferred.
- At least 5 years of experience in critical care, emergency, or trauma nursing.
- Completion of a flight nurse training program.
- Certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
- Ability to work in confined spaces and adapt to changes in the work environment, such as pressure changes and turbulence.
- Pass a rigorous physical and psychological health assessment.
- Good standing with the Nursing Board and no history of malpractice.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills, as well as the ability to function independently.
Responsibilities
- Provide advanced life support and emergency medical care to patients during air transportation.
- Coordinate with medical and flight crew to ensure safe and efficient patient transport.
- Assess and monitor patients' conditions throughout the flight.
- Administer medications, perform medical procedures, and respond to in-flight emergencies as needed.
- Ensure that in-flight medical equipment and supplies are prepared and operational.
- Document all medical care and patient interactions during flights.
- Participate in pre-flight planning and briefing sessions with the medical team.
- Educate and assist patients and their families regarding transport procedures and care continuity.
- Maintain proficiency in critical care nursing through ongoing education and training.
- Adhere to all aviation and healthcare regulations and standards.
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