Polytrauma is defined as two or more injuries resulting in physical, cognitive, psychological, or psychosocial impairments and functional disability. VA has developed several polytrauma centers throughout the U.S. to provide specialized care to young Veterans who have sustained multiple injuries. VA nursing leaders and staff members have made significant contributions to this complex field of care, with VA nurses drawing upon their experience to connect with these younger Veterans and provide expert care during their critical recovery phase. And, a VA Nursing Polytrauma Consortium, comprised of nursing leaders from each polytrauma center, also shares clinical, administrative, educational, and research initiatives related to polytrauma care with additional VA facilities.

If you are interested in providing this type of specialized nursing care, look for positions available in the following cities where VA polytrauma centers are currently located:

• Minneapolis, MN
• Palo Alto, CA
• Richmond, VA
• Tampa, FL

Read more about VA's polytrauma centers.

VA has a long history of conducting and funding research opportunities in the nursing field of study. This research focuses on identifying, testing, and/or implementing nursing interventions that enhance health and prevent disease in Veterans across the care continuum. The VA Nursing Research Advisory Group provides national guidance on these activities.

Special research populations of interest are Veterans with:

• Deployment-related health disorders
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Substance use disorders
• Mental health disorders
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Amputations
• Aging and age-related changes
• Underserved, high-risk populations
• Stroke
• Chronic illness
• HIV
• Spinal cord injuries
• Sensory disorders and loss, especially blind rehabilitation

And within these populations of interest, the VA nursing research agenda includes:

• Maximizing the physical, mental, and social functioning of Veterans and improving their quality of life
• Improving patient safety and health outcomes through nursing practice
• Evaluating patient care delivery models and nursing systems of care
• Evaluating models for translation/implementation of evidence-based practice

VA provides a collaborative and receptive environment, where everyone can contribute ideas for the betterment of the organization. And nurses, especially, are encouraged to pursue their ideas for improving patient care and patient safety. For example, our most rapidly adopted technology, the Bar Code Medication Administration (BCMA) system, was suggested by a VA nurse as an automated way to reduce medication-dispensing errors. VA nurses have received awards and recognition from the VA Office of Nursing Services, the Joint Commission and National Quality Forum, the American Nurses Association, and the American Nurses Credentialing Center for their innovations in chronic pain management, spinal cord injuries, wheelchair safety, and reducing falls.