A registered nurse (RN) provides health-related services in different settings. An RN who works for the government can provide direct health care to patients in a government facility. You may also perform duties related to public health policy or health education or plan and oversee patient care in a community health center. A government nurse can work for a federal, state, or local government agency. You can find employment with a major organization like the VA, a branch of the military, or a state-run hospital. The responsibilities of some nurses focus on the planning and assessment of existing public health services.