68C

68C is a United States Army Military Occupational Specialty in the 68XX series of the Army Medical Department. The title is Practical Nurse Specialist. 68Cs provide nursing care and support under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians, and they serve in a range of settings including military treatment facilities, clinics, field hospitals, and deployed medical units.

Training and qualifications: After completing Basic Combat Training, soldiers enter Advanced Individual Training for 68C. The program covers nursing fundamentals such as patient assessment, vital signs, wound care, infection control, documentation, basic pharmacology, and medication administration within the scope of practice. Training emphasizes safety, ethics, teamwork, and the ability to work in both clinical and field environments.

Duties and work environment: Under supervision, 68Cs perform bedside and support tasks such as measuring vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, collecting specimens, preparing patients for procedures, and assisting with treatments. They administer medications and injections as authorized by supervisors and may participate in basic nursing procedures, patient transport, and other duties necessary in military healthcare settings.

Certification and civilian equivalence: The civilian equivalent of the 68C MOS is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). Many service members pursue further education to become a Registered Nurse (RN) through ongoing Army or civilian programs, supported by education benefits and tuition assistance.

Notes: The 68C designation reflects the Army’s structured medical specialties and the role of practical nursing within military healthcare operations.