Summary
This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
Open to U.S. Citizen (NOTE: Veteran's Preference applies only when equally qualified [Per HRML 05-09-02])
Duties
This is an open continuous posting. Eligible applicants will be reviewed and referred to the hiring manager 2 weeks from the opening date, and then again every 2 weeks until all positions have been filled or closing date.
Duties:
The Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) Nurse Practitioner (NP) practices in Anesthesiology Service as a member of the Acute Pain Service Expansion Program (APSEP) to provide a full range of services emphasizing quality, timeliness, and the advancement of the Veterans Affairs (VA) mission. The NP provides advanced clinical practice, consultation, and management. The NP practices in collaboration with other member of the APS Team to care for patients with acute and acute-on-chronic pain conditions. The APN assists the APS Section Chief with service operations, resource management, organizational initiatives, and service outcome measures to include facilitate continuity of care with the Chronic Pain Service (CPS). The APRN will have strong clinical knowledge of acute and chronic pain in surgical and non-surgical pain states and be familiar with pain management using appropriate opioid use, non-opioid modalities, care of pre- and post-operative surgical patients, and coordination of care. The position requires good computer and communication skills including the ability to develop high-quality interpersonal relationships with other medical providers and services.
Major duties and responsibilities of the position:
- Independently manages a panel of patients with acute and chronic health conditions with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention using evidence-based practice.
- Assesses preoperative surgical patients and manages postoperative pain for inpatients and outpatients.
- Evaluates and completes consults, including assessment and plans of patients with acute and chronic pain conditions.
- Facilitates perioperative flow of patients on day of surgery.
- Assists with regional anesthesia procedures.
- Manages PCA, peripheral nerve catheter infusions, and epidural infusions under the supervision of the APS attending physician.
- Manages intravenous infusions.
- Provides continuity of care by participating in daily bedside rounds.
- Educates patients regarding regional anesthesia techniques, medications, fall preventions, and other patient care modalities.
- Documents all aspects of patient care in a timely and accurate manner.
- Develops and implements an individualized plan to achieve optimal population health and disease management.
- Demonstrates leadership and works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team.
- Orders and interprets labs, tests, and diagnostic studies.
- Prescribes pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions.
- Initiates referrals and consults to specialty services.
- Provides education to patients and their families.
- Assesses and adjusts the plan of care as needed to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
- Works closely with Mental Health, Primary Care, surgeons, and other medical providers to coordinate pain management goals.
- Works closely with the rest of the APS and CPS members.
- Conducts outpatient management of post-operative pain medications, including phone calls and clinic visits.
- Performs other related duties as determined by the attending physician or by the APS Section Chief.
- Exemplifies the ICARE core values of-Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.
VA offers a comprehensive total rewards package: VA Nurse Total Rewards
Pay: Competitive salary, regular salary increases, potential for performance awards
Paid Time Off: 50 days of paid time off per year (26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year)
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA
Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Licensure: 1 full and unrestricted license from any US State or territory
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 7am - 3:30pm
Telework: Not available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more.
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
- All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- You may be required to serve a probationary period.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
- Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Qualifications
Basic Requirements:
- Citizenship. Citizen of the United States [in accordance with section 7402(c) of title 38, United States Code (U.S.C.). Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with 38 U.S.C. ยง7407(a).
- English Language Proficiency. In accordance with 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), no person shall serve in direct patient care positions unless they are proficient in basic written and spoken English.
- Education is a post-master's certificate or master's or doctoral degree as a Nurse Practitioner from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission (ACEN-Formerly NCLAC) or the Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If your MSN was obtained via a Bridge Program that qualifies for professional nursing registration, a BSN is not required.
- Graduate of a school of professional nursing approved by one of the following accrediting bodies at the time the program was completed by the applicant:
- The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, GA 30326. The ACEN accredits all levels of nursing programs, including clinical doctorate, masters/post-master's certificate, baccalaureate, associate and diploma nursing education programs. (NOTE: The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission/NLNAC changed its name to ACEN in May 2013 ACEN's website may be utilized to verify accredited programs using automated inquiry processes; however, for verification of any nursing program's accreditation prior to 1998, an automated inquiry cannot be used and ACEN must be contacted directly via their email contact information on the ACEN website to verify.); OR,
- The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street, NW, Suite 7, Washington, DC 20001. The CCNE is an accrediting arm of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and accredits nursing education programs at the bachelor and master's level.
- Foreign Education. Graduates of foreign schools of professional nursing programs, the nurse practitioner degree equivalency must be validated through an Agency recognized degree equivalency evaluation agency, such as the International Consultants of Delaware (ICD). Candidates with equivalent Nurse Practitioner masters or doctorate level degrees who possess current, full, active and unrestricted registration and certification will meet the requirement of graduation from an approved school of professional nursing to warrant appointment.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted registration as a graduate professional nurse in a State, Territory or Commonwealth (i.e., Puerto Rico) of the United States, or the District of Columbia.
- Licensure and Certification. The following licensure and certification requirements are considered conditions of employment.
- License. All APNs (NPs) must possess and maintain an active, current, full and unrestricted APN license to practice as a NP in a State, Territory or Commonwealth of the United States, or in the District of Columbia.
- Basic Certification. All APNs (NPs) must maintain full and current board certification in an area of clinical specialty from one of the following: The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC); The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB); or other nationally recognized certifying body in the area in which the Nurse Practitioner is academically prepared.
Preferred Experience:
- Possesses strong clinical knowledge of acute and chronic pain in surgical and non-surgical pain states.
- Experience working in a team context to care for patients with acute and acute-on-chronic pain conditions.
- Familiarity with pain management using appropriate opioid and non-opioid modalities, care of pre- and post-operative surgical patients, and coordination of care.
Grade Determination. In addition to the basic qualification requirements, the grade level of an APN (NP) is based on a combination of education and experience:
APN (Nurse Practitioner) II: (a) Scope: Demonstrates leadership in delivering and improving holistic care through collaborative strategies with others (b) Education and Experience Requirement: Meets basic education requirement for APN (CNS). Nurse II is considered the entry grade level for APN (NPs); no experience is required.
(c) Dimension Requirement: APNs (NPs) at level II are expected to meet the following dimension requirements:
- Clinical Practice. Delivers evidence-based health care, demonstrating proficiency in the ability to manage a patient panel, population or program.
- Outcome Focus. Utilizes research and evidence-based practice to evaluate the patient care delivery system within a patient panel or program, presents findings and contributes to changes that enhance the quality and timeliness of veteran/patient care.
- Leadership. Works effectively as a leader within a team/unit/group and seeks interdisciplinary collaboration as appropriate to enhance patient care.
- Professional Development. Acquires knowledge and skills to develop expertise in area of practice.
- Professionalism/Collegiality. Demonstrates effective communication skills and professional behavior, promoting cooperation and teamwork. Participates in interdisciplinary teams and processes that positively impact patient outcomes.
APN (Nurse Practitioner) III: (a) Scope: Executes position responsibilities that demonstrate leadership, experience and creative approaches to management of complex client care. (b) Education and Experience Requirement: Meets basic education requirement for an APN (NP) AND one year of specialized APN (NP) experience equivalent to the Nurse II grade level.
(c) Dimension Requirement. APNs (Nurse Practitioners) at grade III are expected to meet the following dimension requirements:
- Clinical Practice. Influences and models the delivery of evidence- based health care, demonstrating expertise in the ability to manage a patient panel, population or program.
- Outcome Focus. Leads and implements changes that enhance the quality and timeliness of Veteran/patient care applying research and evidence in the delivery of healthcare for patient populations.
- Leadership. Initiates and leads interdisciplinary teams informed by structured approaches and processes to improve outcomes that positively impact care for a patient panel, population or program.
- Professional Development. Acquires knowledge and skills, then disseminates acquired information within and/or outside the medical facility.
- Professionalism/Collegiality. Initiates and leads interdisciplinary teams developing systems that positively impact outcomes at the panel, population or program level. Demonstrates effective communication skills and professional behavior, promoting cooperation and teamwork.
Reference: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G-6a, Advanced Practice Nurse (Nurse Practitioner).
Physical Requirements: The work requires regular and recurring bending, lifting, stooping, stretching, lifting and repositioning patients or similar activities. Moderate lifting (15-44 lbs.); Light lifting, under 15 pounds; Moderate carrying (15-44); Light carrying, under 15 pounds; Straight Pulling (1hour); Pushing (1-3 hours); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking (4 hours); Standing (2-7); Kneeling(2hours); Repeated bending(2hours); Climbing, use of legs and arms; Both Legs required; Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13" to 16" to Jaeger 1 to 4; specific visual requirement 20/40 DVA; corrected; Ability to distinguish basic colors; Hearing (aid permitted); Sitting (8 hours per day); Simple Grasping (2-4 hours per day); Fine Manipulation (4-6 hours, includes keyboarding per day); Twisting (2 hours per day); Mental and Emotional Stability.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be Evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Your application, resume, C.V., and/or other supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
NOTE: Candidate's education, scope, and length of nursing practice (experience) will be considered in determining the grade and salary of the applicant selected. The recommended salary may be at any point in the range listed for this vacancy.
Experience as an RN will be evaluated to determine if the experience is of an acceptable level of quality with regard to the following four dimensions of nursing: Practice, Professional Development, Collaboration and Scientific Inquiry. Each dimension of practice has criteria that demonstrate essential core competencies for VHA Nursing Personnel.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans' Preference Note: Preference eligible candidates and other Veterans will be given preference when qualification of candidates are approximately equal for Title 38 positions in VHA. When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must submit a C.V. and/or resume. Other documents may be requested later in the process if needed.
VA Form 10-2850a - Application for Nurses and Nurse Anesthetists can be found at: About VA Form 10-2850A | Veterans Affairs - not required at this time, but accepted.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position.
- Cover Letter
- DD-214/ Statement of Service
- Disability Letter (Schedule A)
- Disability Letter (VA)
- License
- Other (1)
- PCS Orders
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- Resume
- Separation Notice (RIF)
- SF-15
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 08/16/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12416492.
- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
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