NOVA’s Advanced Practice Registered Nurses discuss the reasons why they chose a career at the VA, and share the day to day difficulties of working at a VA clinic.

Choosing Nursing 

For Cathy Wogamon, DNP, FNP-BC, CWON, CFCN at the Lake City VAMC, nursing has always been in her heart and working at the VA was always part of her plan. 

“My father was a Purple Heart WWII recipient,” Wogamon said. “My clinic wall is full of pictures of family and  those ‘like-family’, including my nephews who are currently serving. I love serving  Veterans who served our country and appreciate all their service for our freedom.”

The decision to go into nursing was unexpected for Karen Boenig, MSN, APRN, ANP-BC at the VA Boston Healthcare System. Originally, she was accepted into the pre-med program, but switched to nursing before starting her freshman year at Boston College.

“I started volunteering at the VA Boston Healthcare System when I was 14 years old and continued until I went to college. My plan was to work at the VA for one year to get medical-surgical experience and go work at one of the Boston area hospitals. But I loved the VA so much and after 37 years I am still there. 

Kelly Loven, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC at the VA Central Western Massachusetts, always knew she would go into nursing.

“I am a third-generation nurse in my family,” Even while playing sports in high school, I was the one who provided the ace wraps in our small town school.”  I chose the VA because I wanted to give back to those that have served. When entering the VA  there is always a ‘hello’ or a ‘thank you’ from a Veteran.” 

Tackling Tough Days

Being a nurse is not just about medical procedures or tests. It’s about being there for your patients on tough days and helping them get better. One of the ways Wogamon helps Veterans through tough days is by simply listening. 

“Active listening is very important in the clinic, often a Veteran needs someone to listen more than any medical care we can offer.  Spouses who have lost their Veteran have called to thank us for our care and to share a moment of their own grieving. There have been  tears, laughter, and other emotions shared and I plan for that to continue throughout my service to the Veterans.” 

“One of the Veterans who was scheduled to see me was stuck in his wheelchair on the lift of The Ride. The Ride is a paratransit service that the Veteran used for transportation to his primary care appointment. His wife came into the VA and told me what had happened. I went out and saw the patient in the parking lot, so he didn't miss his appointment.”

Memorable Days

Despite having tough days, there are times that are memorable and rewarding. Loven realized on her first day at the VA that she had made the right choice. 

“I immediately knew it was a great decision for me. I remember thinking to myself everyone smiles, says good morning when passing by, and how appreciative the  Veterans are. It is a great feeling and not always felt in the private sector,” Loven said.

Wogamon remembers being overwhelmed running the Wound and Ostomy Clinic on her own. 

“I was unsure at times if I was doing all I could for my patients. I remember a Veteran who came back to me and said, ‘I want to thank you for saving my leg.’ I felt like I was where I was needed, doing what was needed”. 

Impact of NOVA

According to Loven, NOVA helped her in different ways as a new member. “NOVA  helped me understand the VA through mentorship, webinars, and education … I love that  the members become a family and support each other.”

For Wogamon, NOVA gave her the opportunity to network with other VA nurses and share information and words of encouragement with them. “I especially valued my NOVA membership during COVID. It was nice to be able to hear from other nurses around the country who were serving on the frontlines and to have a connection when it seemed like so many things were disconnected.”

Registration is now open for the NOVA 41st Annual Meeting. Held in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 21-22. Meet other NOVA nurses from around the country. Click here for more information.