Infection control nursing in the US military

I have been a military infection control nurse for six years and have been stationed in California, Turkey and now in England. Each of these assignments has afforded unique and wonderful experiences. In this article, I will describe these assignments and the amazing differences among them. I will touch on the educational differences and levels of infection control practitioners I have found, my specific US Air Force assignments, and the special circumstances I have encountered in all three locations that continue to intrigue and amaze me.

I hope this synopsis, from the view of only one ICN in the military. has given some perspective to the unique challenges and opportunities that are afforded us as we move all over the world and perform the job that we are called to do.

I daresay that in the US, Turkey, UK and all over the world, ICNs face many similar problems and frustrations. I know that we all face issues with non-compliance from staff members, and that the only time the staff really want to see us is in the event of an outbreak, when we get the phone call frantically stating: ‘Come quick, something truly terrible is going on!’

All of us have certainly felt unappreciated (probably on a daily basis) and known as a nuisance. However, the tremendous passion for the job, and knowing that we are making a difference in the world around us in the hospital or community setting, should encourage each of us to continue in our perseverance for the practice of infection control.

If anyone really took time to evaluate all that we must know and learn to perform our jobs, they would clearly see that the hospitals and communities would fall apart without our efforts. Commendation medals should go to all.