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Va Rn Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RN/T-RN We have multiple job openings for local and travel RNs in multiple states (RI, PA, NJ, MD, DE, NM, NC, IL, VA, NV, AZ, IA, TN, OR, MI, WA, WI, AR). Job Type: Local & travel contract Radius ...

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Va Rn information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$43

$89

How much do va rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for va rn in Iowa is $43.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.22 and $52.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a VA RN?

VA RNs are Registered Nurses who work for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). They provide care to veterans in VA hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. VA RNs perform a wide range of duties including patient assessment, administering medications, coordinating care, and supporting veterans' physical and emotional needs. They play a crucial role in delivering quality healthcare to those who have served in the military.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VA RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as a VA Registered Nurse, you need a solid background in clinical nursing, patient assessment, and care coordination, supported by an active RN license and, often, a BSN degree. Familiarity with VA-specific electronic health record systems (such as CPRS), government compliance protocols, and additional certifications like BLS or ACLS are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and resilience help you provide compassionate care to veterans and effectively collaborate within multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring high-quality, veteran-centered care and navigating the unique demands of the VA healthcare system.

What are some common challenges faced by VA RNs, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Registered Nurses (RNs) working in VA healthcare settings often encounter unique challenges such as managing complex patient cases related to veterans’ service-connected conditions, navigating federal healthcare systems, and collaborating within interdisciplinary teams. It's important for applicants to be adaptable, possess strong communication skills, and be comfortable with electronic health records (EHRs) used by the VA. Preparing by familiarizing yourself with veteran-specific health issues and VA protocols will help ease the transition and enhance your effectiveness in this rewarding role.

What is the difference between Va Rn vs LPN?

AspectVa RnLPN
Required CredentialsState RN license, possibly some VA-specific certificationsLicensed Practical Nurse license, state-specific
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, VA medical centersLong-term care facilities, clinics, VA outpatient settings
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily VA healthcare system, hospitalsLong-term care, outpatient clinics, VA facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Va Rn and an LPN lies in their scope of practice and credentials. Va Rns hold a registered nurse license and can perform more complex medical tasks, while LPNs have a practical nurse license with a more limited scope. Both roles work within the VA healthcare system, but Va Rns typically have broader responsibilities and higher qualifications.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Va Rn jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Va Rn job openings:

Infographic showing various Va Rn job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% As Needed, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,442 per year, or $43 per hour.

Registered Nurse - MedSurg

Des Moines, IA • On-site

US Department of Veterans Affairs
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 674 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 300 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Inpatient Staff Registered Nurse (RN)

The Inpatient Staff Registered Nurse (RN) will work in the MedSurg Unit. This RN will be responsible for providing competent, evidence-based care to patients with oversight of licensed vocational nurses/nursing assistants. This RN will assist in directing the provision of nursing education, orientation, competencies and providing quality improvement.

Major duties include but are not limited to:

  • Administers medications and procedures per established policies and guidelines.
  • Demonstrates the ability to cope with and manage competing priorities.
  • Responsible for all elements of the nursing process when providing and/or supervising direct patient care.
  • Performs ongoing assessments, noting changes in condition, and provides appropriate interventions.
  • Provides IV drug infusions of various medications with nurse driven titration per protocol and procedures.
  • Recognizes emergency situations and demonstrates effective action in emergencies.
  • Assures detailed, current, and comprehensive documentation is contained in the patient medical record and other pertinent records.
  • Functions independently and demonstrates the ability to assign, organize and delegate assessed needs to other members of the interdisciplinary team and peers.
  • Influences care outcomes coordinating and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to provide quality care based on established standards, policies, and procedures.

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: Part-time, 0.9 FTE - Nights, 1930 - 0800

Compressed/Flexible: Not Available

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 VHA.ELRSProgramSupport@va.gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

Preferred Experience: Med/Surg Experience

The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.


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