What does it take to remain a LifeFlight Nurse?
Continuing education and continuous quality improvement are required for nurses-- including monthly chart reviews with Attending ED, Trauma, and Pediatric physicians; invasive skills lab every six months; and documentation skills required to maintain proficiency. Each nurse is also required to take advantage of the many educational opportunities available at Vanderbilt Medical Center.
About Flight Nurses
In addition, previous flight experience is preferred. Other requirements include:
- Neonatal Resuscitation Provider (preferred or within first year at LifeFlight)
- Above certification(s) instructorship preferred
- BSN and public speaking experience preferred
- Must pass criminal background check
Once the minimum requirements are met a candidate will undergo an extensive interview process. After a nurse is hired he/she is then required to participate in a comprehensive orientation program partnered with an experienced flight nurse before becoming part of the flight crew. This orientation is individualized according to the needs of the candidate, and includes at minimum rotations through all the critical care areas at Vanderbilt, EMS ride-a-longs, and proof of proficiency in assessment and invasive procedure skills.
Our Outreach
Many LifeFlight nurses provide safety and/or clinical classes on:
- Helicopter utilization
- Care of the critical trauma patient
- Care of the critical pediatric patient
- Care of the critical medical patient
- BTLS, TNCC, ENPC and other certification classes
Classes may be customized to the needs of your organization.