Seeking employment with VA hospital

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I am anticipating applying at the VA hospital either in Denver CO or Cheyenne WY. I have been an RN for 28 yr. I would like any insight on what might help increase my chances of being hired. I like their retirement benefits!

Specializes in ER/ICU/Flight.

The VA has varying levels of RN that begin with diploma/ADN and continue on through Ph.D, this affects your pay grade and various positions for which you may be eligible. and it doesn't change state to state because all you need is a nursing license in any state...the VA isn't technically bound by state nursing practice acts. For example, a friend of mine is a nurse educator, MSN with a license from Ohio, we don't live in Ohio and she only needs to keep that license for any VA hospital where she would transfer.

Persistance does help, I'd personally pay a visit to the nurse recruiter's office so a face can be put with a name (for both of you). They also have an official new grad orientation process. And have a VALOR program for BSN students during their school to transition into an RN role upon licensure.

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my dtr has adn and was offered a position at her local va

the va in my area requires a years experience unless you were employed as a cna or lpn while gong to school, this information is several years old..maybe at this time new grads will be hired

military requires a bsn for officer yo can join in ellisted ranks and then progress to bsn

military is very good about supporting with pay and tutuion

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I assume you already have at least a BSN; the VA, or any federal employer (military) requires a Bachelor's or higher to work as a nurse.

Not true. I have an ADN, and worked via agency for a year at a VA from 2006-2007. Many LPN's are employed by the VA too. As a matter of fact, there were NO BSN's on the floor where I worked, although all their ads say BSN preferred.

A good thing about the VA, is that they will help you get your BSN. :typing

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Does the VA hire new grads?

Absolutely. The MPLS VA just hired me as a new grad (pending physical).

New (BSN) grads (at least in MPLS) are appointed to 1 year temp appointments. After passing Boards they will be appointed to a permanent position with a 2 year probation.

I would contact the nurse recruiter at the VA in your area and set up an interview.

If you have at least a year left of school check out the VALOR program.

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Specializes in Med Surg, Hospice.

Ok.. Open Mouth.. Insert Size 10.... I posted this morning that I got a letter requesting availability and nothing happens... Well, they just called me requesting an interview..... Does anyone know how long it takes to make a decision on hire?

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.

I also know that they hire LPNs. I am a vaccination nurse for the US Armed Services and I met an LPN who works in the VA in my area. He told me that they have nurses of all levels there. I plan to apply myself at some time, because it is closer to where I live (walking distance) and pays better.

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
Ok.. Open Mouth.. Insert Size 10.... I posted this morning that I got a letter requesting availability and nothing happens... Well, they just called me requesting an interview..... Does anyone know how long it takes to make a decision on hire?

Congrats!! I don't know, but I heard that it is a long process from application to interview (the average I am hearing is close to a year). Was it the same for you? Well, it seems that you are close! Wish I had more information, but I wish you the very best of luck!!:up:

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Specializes in Emergency Room; Acute Psychiatry.

It is a long process. I can't imagine it taking a full year though. It took me about 4 months, but I think that was quicker than most. I already knew a few people who worked there who were pulling for me.

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Specializes in DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES.

It is easy getting a job at the VA. If they have openings for RN's it shouldn't be a problem. You do NOT have to have a BSN to get hired.

The hiring process is however very long. About three months. Your 28 years experience is almost a sure foot in the door! :up:

God Bless YOU.:yeah:

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I was hired at a VA as a new grad (with a BSN). I interviewed in October and began working at the end of February. The paperwork and background checks prior to hiring are cumbersome (this is the GOVERNMENT, remember...), but the wait was worth it. I've been very happy with my position and I love the patient population. Good luck!

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