Taking Nursing to New Heights: Flight Nursing

This was an incredible opportunity to experience the intersection between two passions of mine — aviation and nursing. From the moment the helicopter lifted off, I was immersed in a world where every decision counts. Riding alongside Ryan and the skilled crew of pilots, nurses, and paramedics, I witnessed the teamwork and precision that define emergency flight care. Each scene call we responded to underscored the importance of critical thinking, calm and concise communication, and clinical adaptability in high-pressure environments.

Observing how flight nurses deliver advanced care midair was both inspiring and humbling. It showed me that nursing extends far beyond the hospital walls, reaching patients wherever they are — even thousands of feet above the ground.

This experience has made me even more excited to complete nursing school and has reaffirmed my goal of becoming a CFRN in the future. I’ve learned that nursing care takes many forms, and this was just one example of how it extends far beyond the walls of the hospital. What remains constant, however, is the unwavering attention to detail, interdisciplinary collaboration, and commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care that define the profession.

I’m incredibly grateful to my mentor, Elizabeth Dito, RN, for connecting me with Sheila Lindsay, NP, MSN, RN, who introduced me to Ryan. And a special thank-you to the University of San Francisco School of Nursing and Health Professions for making this connection possible through the SONHP Alumni Mentor Program.