Leaving govt nursing...

Specialties Government

Published

Has anyone left govt. nursing and been happy with their decision? I've been at the VA for almost 2 years and I'm not sure if this is what I want for the next 30 years. People think you're crazy when you talk about possibly leaving because of all the bennies. As a veteran, I love taking care of this population but the system isn't the easiest to function in. Thanks in advance.

jeckrn, BSN, RN

1,868 Posts

Specializes in EMT, ER, Homehealth, OR.

It comes down to what will make you happy. Working in a civilian facility is not like working in a federal facility, ie call offs, staffing, benefits etc. Have you looked into switching federal agencies?

Buckeyern12

9 Posts

JeckRN, by switching do you mean working for DOD? There are not many military bases in our area and I haven't seen listings for other agencies.

Editorial Team / Moderator

Lunah, MSN, RN

14 Articles; 13,766 Posts

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

I left the Army/GS. I am happy with my decision. It is what is best for me at this time. I took a non-bedside position when I made the switch, though — it was an opportunity for change and growth. I applied to a few gov positions, but they are still out there pending on USAjobs and I didn't want to wait forever because it involved moving for my husband to go to med school.

Buckeyern12

9 Posts

Thanks Pixie! Ive too been looking at non clinical jobs. I work as a care coordinator now but would like to move into a case management position. I like the idea of working in a company(prob insurance) that pays and retains you for your work ethic. I find in govt nursing, they can't fire the dead weight and these are the people who stick around making the job miserable

Editorial Team / Moderator

Lunah, MSN, RN

14 Articles; 13,766 Posts

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
I find in govt nursing, they can't fire the dead weight and these are the people who stick around making the job miserable

Yep — VERY frustrating. Another frustration is when they promote them and give them a raise/grade increase just to get them out of the department, rather than actually getting rid of them. :( Rewarding non-performers is a fast way to put morale in the hopper.

Buckeyern12

9 Posts

Totally agree. Nurse 3 seems extremely unattainable at my facility. I'm graded on making change in a system that doesn't allow change, hmmmmm. I just want to be paid for the work I do, in a system that is well designed. That's why I was leaning towards insurance nursing.

jeckrn, BSN, RN

1,868 Posts

Specializes in EMT, ER, Homehealth, OR.

Several agencies besides the DOD & VA have nurses. The Indian Affairs & Homeland Security are 2 off the top of my head.

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