As Nurse Manager of the Progressive Care Unit/Intensive Care Unit (PCU/ICU) at Salem Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Salem, Virginia, Robin Davis, MSN RN, directs patient care while improving and implementing acute care policies and practices. Davis has served the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) since 2005. She became a Nurse Manager at Salem VAMC in southwest Virginia in 2014.
In honor of national #NursesWeek 2019, Davis describes her role in nursing at VA, explains the benefits of VA nursing careers and why she celebrates VA nurses.
How long have you served at VA and in what roles?
I direct patient care while improving and implementing acute care policies and practices. My leadership and communication skills are put to the test as I address clinical, ethical and administrative challenges involving staff and patients within the organization. My role is never static; I am constantly finding ways to increase my knowledge of technology to stay abreast of medical and clinical progression while adapting to meet the needs of an ever-changing patient population.
Why did you choose a career at VA?
I chose VA for my nursing career 14 years ago. I have devoted the past five years to my current role as a Nurse Manager. As a compassionate, strong-valued individual, nursing fulfilled my desire to find a rewarding occupation. It gave me unlimited job opportunities and daily opportunities to save lives and bring happiness and comfort to Veterans in need. Nursing at VA is a win-win occupation.
What are your reasons for celebrating the nurses you lead and serve with at VA?
VA nurses are always on the front line in caring for Veterans; they are resilient, hard-working, compassionate, selfless and giving.
What are the most rewarding parts of your job?
Delivering care to the nation’s Veteran population is incredibly rewarding; I love connecting with them through their stories. Veterans display so much pride, courage and dedication to our country.
Why should nurses starting out in their careers take a closer look at VA?
The VA nursing staff lead the industry in professionalism, commitment and integrity. My experiences as a VA nurse have given me a greater understanding of self, the care concepts and the organizational principles of the profession. My career has taught me to be a better person.
What are some other ways that VA supports nurses and nursing careers?
There are numerous opportunities for academic growth through several educational benefits, leadership advancement and continuous education that enhance personal and professional growth. There is tremendous opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to a high level of excellence in Veteran patient care.
Choose VA today
- APPLY for an nursing position near you.
- Explore opportunities for VA nurses in the Office of Nursing Services brochure (PDF) and the Nurse Executive flyer (PDF).
- LEARN how to Choose VA at VAcareers.va.gov.
- VIEW other posts in our #NursesWeek 2019 blog series.
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