In clinical practice VA nurses are part of an interdisciplinary team. Opportunities exist in ambulatory care, medicine, surgery, psychiatry and include specialized treatment programs found in ICU, OR, spinal cord injury, geriatrics, rehabilitation, and hospital-based home care programs. Nursing administrators in VA provide Service Line Leadership for Nursing and other Patient Care Programs, bringing together clinical practice, education and research to provide a common base for patient care delivery. Our nurses are expected to apply topical findings to their practice and to identify areas of practice that need further study. Venues to present research findings are available.
Education is key to improving patient care by enhancing the effectiveness of each nurse's practice.
Staff development programs as well as formal and informal educational programs are available. Continuing education is encouraged and tuition assistance is available. Salaries for VA nurses are based on local job market practices. This allows VA to remain competitive. Other benefits include generous vacation time, holiday and sick leave, health and life insurance, and a nationally acclaimed Retirement program.