Anyone working in a VA outpatient clinic?

Specialties Government

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Specializes in Step-down ICU.

Just wondering if there are any civilian nurses who work in an outpatient VA clinic? I am looking to transition, but have been told that working in the VA hosptial/clinic only exposes you to certain populations (mostly male) and the experience doesn't make you well rounded (limited skill set). Thoughts?

I've been working in home health for over a year and ready to move on to something different. Thanks for the input.

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What exactly is the question? The majority of the 'greatest generation' vets that seek VA are older men.. it mirrors those who fought in the wars and are vets. I'd say its a pretty good patient population - lots of interesting people who deserve great compassionate care~

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Specializes in EMT, ER, Homehealth, OR.

Working in a CBOC you will use the same skills as if you are working in a Doctors office, which a CBOC is. As with any area of nursing you will use some skills and not others. Some skills are physical in nature, ie starting IV's etc and others are mental, ie being a case manager. What you have to way is what do you want to do as a nurse.

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Specializes in Elderly, Long term care.

I am an Army Veteran Female and when I would go to the clinics, the general population is older men. After I pass boards I really want to get into some form of government job. I would like to work at a VA Nursing Home. Have you ever heard of moon-lighting. You can always work PRN elsewhere, maybe as a CCU or ICU Nurse to keep up on yours skills. But to me I feel there is only one skill that nursing is all about and I will never lose it, it is the skill of being there for someone and making a difference.

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hi spoiled1,

i am a 15 year career lpn and i am embarking on a new adventure with the va in the rocky mt. region at a brand new telehealth clinic. i have only heard good things about being a nurse for the va, so i am optimistic. however, i am also scared to be starting something new at "my age"! are you working a va clinic now? how's it going so far? keep us posted and good luck!

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Specializes in Step-down ICU.
hi spoiled1,

i am a 15 year career lpn and i am embarking on a new adventure with the va in the rocky mt. region at a brand new telehealth clinic. i have only heard good things about being a nurse for the va, so i am optimistic. however, i am also scared to be starting something new at "my age"! are you working a va clinic now? how's it going so far? keep us posted and good luck!

hi celticwoman!

nope i am still doing home health, but i did submit my application for a va clinic job back in april. i didn't receive an interview, but i will keep at it. i too have only heard good things about it, but i'm still kinda new--just over a year of rn experience which has been all home health/private duty since they were the only people hiring when i graduated. i feel stuck, but won't give up. hope you're enjoying your new job! :)

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