Veterans affairs nurse

A veterans affairs nurse takes care of patients who have served in the U.S. military.

Required education

ADN or BSN

Average annual salary

$74,000

Payscale (Jan. 2026)

Varied

Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.

What is the role of a veterans affairs nurse?

Besides giving everyday healthcare to a diverse population of veterans, you’ll help those suffering from psychological and physical post-war trauma, providing emotional rehabilitation and helping them learn to live with disabilities resulting from their injuries.

What you’ll do as a veterans affairs nurse

Collaboration

You’ll work with doctors, family members, and other nurses.

Treatment

You’ll apply first aid and help veterans with disabilities regain mobility.

Counsel

You’ll provide patients and families with emotional support and refer them to the right therapy groups if needed.

Female nurse in green scrubs setting up IV drip in hospital

Where you’ll work as a veterans affairs nurse

Veterans affairs nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

Outpatient care centers
Patients’ homes
VA Hospitals

How to become a veterans affairs nurse

Get an Associate’s Degrees in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.

Pass the NCLEX-RN and work as a Registered Nurse.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

You’re ready to work as a veterans affairs nurse!