Raise at VA After Graduating

[psichi]

Hello all,

I currently work as an RN at the VA hospital, Nurse I step 8 with a BSN. Began nursing in August 2020 at the VA. I just received a raise to Nurse I step 8, however I am graduating from a DNP program in December of this year. Am I able to submit another package to the board for consideration of additional education? Or will I have to wait until next August to reap the benefits? Would I move to Nurse III based on education and experience, or am I only allowed to advance to Nurse II? I can't seem to find a specific answer, but I appreciate the help of you all! 

[OUxPhys, BSN, RN]

Unfortunately with the VA you have to meet all the criteria to move up from Nurse 1 to nurse 2, etc. It doesn't matter what education level you are (for the most part). Sure, they more than likely won't give you nurse 2 if you have an ADN (due to the obsession of having a BSN) but just because you get your DNP does not mean you automatically get nurse 2, 3. 

[boywithacoin, BSN]

Also, you can only advance in succession, so if you are Nurse I, you have to get to Nurse II before you can get Nurse III. And again, that's regardless of education (and sometimes experience).