Anyone else having problems with the transition...

[jamangel]

Hi,

I've worked in the private sector for a while and i've been at the VA almost 3 years and have been on the verge of leaving many times. The question I have is this: Is anyone else having a problem adjusting from the private sector to the VA?

I am a LPN and there were lots of things I was allowed to do in the private sector that I'm not allowed to do at the VA. I know that all VA's aren't the same but alot of nurse's are complaining about "losing their skills".

Anyone else concerned with that or anything else?

[athena55, BSN, RN]

Hello Jamangel:

I am with VISN 3. The major problem I first had when entering the VA system was....A team is assigned to do all the "completes" i.e., complete hygienic care. I am used to doing my own bed baths. The only way to assess your patient, IMHO

Also, was not used to using a "paperless system", but learning, smile. Can get a wee bit annoying when I forget to document the prn effectiveness, but I am very happy working at the VA.

As for feeling like I am losing my skills....it is what you make of it. I take the time to auscultate my patients breath sounds, heart sounds, bowel sounds etc. This habit may be the result of my being a critical care RN for over 28 years (presently working in Telemetry).

The biggest negative I have (working for the VA) is that I rarely finish my shift "on time". I work third shift and often am still doing "paperwork"/documenting on the computer when the night shift is starting their shift. Oh well......

But like I stated above, I am very happy being a part of the VA team. I like the patient population, I really enjoy being with my co-workers, and the unit PCTC is a true nurse advocate.

Do I sound like I tow the "party line"? Yeah, I guess I do. I am just happy to be working. Plus being in the ANC-RC and working for the VA...They "get it" where working for the private sector, they had such problems with my military BA and AT.

Good Luck,

athena

[jamangel]

thanks for that!