When is the best time to start talking with a recruiter to get paperwork started for commissioning in the Navy as an ER nurse?

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 21:44:32 -0500

I'm prior service Army. will have a year as an ER nurse in Feb 2022. Wanting to commission in the Navy as an ER nurse. Does anyone know when is the best time to start talking with a recruiter to get paperwork started? Has anyone been prior service and gone Navy? Just trying to figure out how to plan.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2021 9:48 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 21:48:07 -0500

Good for you! We need more individuals like you.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Dec 1 at 2021 9:54 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 21:54:59 -0500

Why have you not applied for direct commission or an appointment as a Warrant Officer?
NOTE: To join the Navy Nurse Corps, you must be a U.S. citizen between the ages of 18 and 41. You have to be in good physical condition and able to pass a full medical examination. You must be a student or graduate of an accredited bachelor's degree nursing program.
Here's the Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program (MECP) link: https://www.navyadvancement.com/enlisted-officer/medical-enlisted-commissioning.php

Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program - MECP

Navy Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program (MECP) allows enlisted sailors in the Navy to earn a degree in nursing and become an officer

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 1 at 2021 10:16 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 22:16:59 -0500

The faster you start the process the sooner you will understand the requirements. Get hopping!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2021 1:51 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 01:51:50 -0500

Probably around 0900 after the recruiter had a cup of coffee.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Dec 2 at 2021 2:06 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 02:06:26 -0500

Early because the recruiter won't be the one handling you. It will be an Accessions Officer that works the nursing side. That's the one you'll build the relationship with. Start getting into shape as Navy nurses also take care of the Marines. Women were bought into that realm years ago. Consider the reserve side as well in looking at your total life options. Also be prepared for a different type of hospital politics.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Dec 2 at 2021 8:23 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 08:23:16 -0500

I'd contact them now and get the ball rolling.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Dec 2 at 2021 11:12 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 11:12:51 -0500

I would start talking to Officer Recruiting now. Just a quick look says you need a degree from an Accredited College, be able to get your 20 by age 62, pass all the physical and background checks and have passed the NC LEX. The recruiter will have a more realistic view of how long it takes.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2021 1:39 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 13:39:57 -0500

Now. Now is good.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Dec 3 at 2021 4:01 AM

MAJ Byron Oyler — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 04:01:46 -0500

Never too early to start but choosing a branch because they require less experience is the wrong decision metric. You need to look at lifestyle, career opportunities and advancement, and any other factors important. The Army has six specialty courses you could attend. Flight nursing by the Air Force is done by the reserves. Do you like your lifestyle in the army?

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Dec 6 at 2021 7:33 PM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 19:33:57 -0500

The first time you talk with the Recruiter. Let the Recruiter know up front your desires. Also, are you on the National Register for Nurses or have you passed a state board test and are you current in your certifications? This always helps.