Overview

Perioperative nurses care for surgical patients who are having operative procedures. They are responsible for planning and organizing all perioperative-nursing services. As part of the Army Nurse Corps, they play an important role in improving the overall quality of life for Soldiers and their families.

Job Duties

• Supervise the perioperative experience for the patient in accordance with the surgical team
  
• Assess the nursing care throughout the entire surgical process
  
• Participate in the preparation, sterilization, monitoring, maintenance and storage of surgical supplies/equipment
  
• Teach perioperative management and strategy to medical students
  

Requirements

Active Duty

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a program accredited by the National League for Nursing or the Commission, Collegiate Nursing Education or the U.S. Secretary of Education
  
• Completion of a qualified course in public health nursing or one year of supervised experience
  
• Must be between 21 and 42 years of age (may request a waiver)
  
• Current, valid and unrestricted nursing license
  
• Must be a U.S. citizen
  
  

Army Reserve

• In addition to the above qualifications, permanent U.S. residency is required for Reserve duty officers.
  

Training

Job training for a Nurse Corps officer includes completing an Officer Basic Leadership Course, which introduces you to the Army Health Care system, Army doctrine and basic Soldier/leader skills.

Helpful Skills

• Ability to make accurate, immediate decisions
  
• Perform under stress
  
• Apply critical technical and thinking skills
  
• Tremendous concentration
  

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Active Duty

• Receive Army Nurse Accession Bonus
  
• Nurse Loan Repayment Program
  
• Low-cost life and dental insurance,
  
• Noncontributory retirement benefits with 20 years of qualifying service
  
• 30 days of paid vacation earned annually
  
  

Army Reserve

• Qualified nurses can receive Special Pay
  
• Health Care Professionals Loan Repayment Program
  
• Noncontributory retirement benefits at age 60 with 20 years of qualifying service
  
• Low-cost life and dental insurance
  

Education Benefits

The U.S. Army provides generous education loan-repayment programs, residency programs and continuing education opportunities to support your continued career growth and development.