Leaving govt nursing...

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.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
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?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

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.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
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.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

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

Up Vote Up Vote ×
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.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

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.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
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.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion