Nursing Assistant (Surgical Acute Care)

Quick Facts

• Role: Nursing Assistant for 3A Surgical Acute Care Service

• Work schedule: Rotating shifts

• Telework: Not available

Description

Provide direct patient/resident care for veterans with acute to chronic conditions in a surgical acute care setting. Monitor and observe subtle changes in condition, document care and responses, and escalate to nursing staff as needed. Perform nursing procedures within scope of practice, including glucose monitoring support, complete tracheostomy care (with suctioning), and intake/output monitoring.

Responsibilities

• Use glucose monitoring devices to obtain readings and refer deviations to appropriate health care staff

• Provide direct care for complex veterans

• Observe physical and emotional changes (behavior shifts, mood, skin coloring, appetite) and take appropriate actions within the assigned role

• Document care given, observations, and responses on appropriate tools or forms

• Respond appropriately to subtle patient changes by contacting the appropriate nursing personnel

• Administer complete tracheostomy care, including suctioning

• Monitor and document patient intake and output; report deviations timely and accurately

• Perform nursing procedures within scope of practice and per policies/standard procedures (e.g., enemas, catheterization, colostomy care, skin care/small dressings, application of braces and prosthetic devices)

• Assist with small group activities according to each patient/resident treatment plan

• Promote independence by respecting autonomy, using limit setting, and individualized treatment

• Actively participate in Treatment Planning Meetings

• Use equipment to promote patient self-care (e.g., lift equipment, Hydro sound tubs, wandering system)

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship

• Proficiency in written and spoken English

• Subject to background/security investigation

• Complete online onboarding and pre-employment requirements; required documentation for I-9 (REAL ID compliant ID required effective May 7, 2025)

• Pass pre-employment physical examination

• Participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program

• Tentatively selected applicants: subject to urinalysis drug screening prior to appointment

• Selective Service registration required for males born after 12/31/1959

• Complete a 1- or 2-year trial period as a condition of employment

• Meet VA NA basic qualification requirements for experience/education/training (and additional requirements for GS-4/GS-5 levels)

• Meet physical requirements (visual acuity, keen hearing, clear distinctive speech, manual dexterity; frequent walking/standing/bending/stooping; potential patient transfers; exposure to infectious/contaminated materials; potential combative patients)

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government includes a comprehensive benefits package. Eligibility depends on the specific type of position held (full-time/part-time/intermittent).