Advance Your Nursing Career: Become a Patient Safety Manager at the Lexington VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Nurse with a passion for quality improvement and patient safety? The Lexington VA Health Care System is inviting qualified professionals to join our team as a Patient Safety Manager. This role is essential to our mission, serving as a catalyst for excellence and ensuring that every Veteran receives the safest, highest-quality care possible.
Job Responsibilities
The Patient Safety Manager (PSM) operates at the intersection of clinical care and organizational strategy. Key responsibilities include:
- System Implementation: Serving as the lead for National Center for Patient Safety (NCPS) directives.
- Root Cause Analysis: Leading RCA teams to investigate incidents and prevent future occurrences.
- Quality Oversight: Monitoring performance measures and ensuring full compliance with The Joint Commission and OIG standards.
- Education: Facilitating orientation and competency training for staff to promote a culture of transparency and safety.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-impact position, candidates must meet specific federal standards, including:
- Active, unrestricted U.S. Nursing License.
- Graduation from an accredited nursing program (ACEN/CCNE).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass pre-employment physicals and background checks.
Grade Level Comparison
| Position Level | Education Requirement | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN/Diploma | Fundamental knowledge-based care |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma + 1yr Exp OR BSN | Biopsychosocial integration |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN/Diploma + 2yr Exp OR MSN | Self-directed complex care |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2yr Exp OR MSN + 1yr Exp | Holistic leadership/collaboration |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2yr Exp OR DNP | Complex organizational management |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $68,803 to $127,394 per year, commensurate with your nursing experience, education level, and the complexity of your practice dimensions. The VA is committed to fair compensation and regular salary increases.
Benefits
Working for the VA provides more than just a paycheck; it provides a comprehensive total rewards package, including:
- Generous Leave: Up to 50 days of paid time off per year.
- Retirement: A robust federal pension and 401k matching program.
- Insurance: Extensive choices for health, dental, vision, and long-term care that follow you into retirement.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the provided standard Clinical Resume document.
- Be Specific: Detail how your experience addresses the five nursing dimensions.
- Stay Organized: Ensure all supporting documents like licenses and transcripts are ready for upload.
Join us in our mission to serve those who have served. As a Patient Safety Manager at the Lexington VA, your expertise will directly impact the well-being of our Veterans. Apply today to start your next chapter.
Why This Registered Nurse - Patient Safety Manager Job Matters
Shape the future of patient care as a Patient Safety Manager with the Lexington VA Health Care System—where excellence meets mission-driven service.
Registered Nurse - Patient Safety Manager Job Overview
The Lexington VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to serve as a Patient Safety Manager. In this pivotal role, you will champion a culture of safety, implement national patient safety directives, and lead interdisciplinary teams to ensure the highest standards of care for our nation's Veterans. This position offers a unique opportunity to blend clinical expertise with leadership, driving quality improvement across one of the nation's top-ranked VA facilities.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Patient Safety Manager
- U.S. Citizenship
- English language proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking
- Graduate of a school of professional nursing accredited by ACEN or CCNE
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Completion of background and security investigations
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Patient Safety Manager
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Nursing (BSN or MSN)
- Professional experience in patient safety, quality improvement, or program management
- Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing interdisciplinary teams
- Expertise in RCA methodology, NCPS directives, and regulatory compliance (Joint Commission/OIG)
- Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health, Vision, and Dental insurance plans
- ✓Traditional Federal Pension plan
- ✓Federal 401k savings plan with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓50 days of paid time off per year (26 annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Career development and professional growth opportunities
- ✓Portability of federal insurance programs into retirement
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Patient Safety Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Patient Safety Manager Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume document from the provided VA link.
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, license, and required documents (SF-50, transcripts, etc.).
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of August 6, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience regarding the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Research.
- Use the provided standard Clinical Resume template to avoid delays.
- Review all regulatory documents regarding Veterans' Preference and ensure proper documentation (DD-214) is uploaded if applicable.
- Submit your application early to allow time for troubleshooting if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the Patient Safety Manager role?
The PSM serves as the lead for implementing patient safety policies developed by the National Center for Patient Safety, conducting Root Cause Analysis, and promoting a culture of safety across the facility.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position located at the Lexington VA Health Care System in Kentucky.
Are there opportunities for professional development?
Yes, the VA provides a supportive environment with access to training, education, and career advancement programs within a world-class teaching facility.
What is the work schedule?
The position follows a standard M-F, 7am-3:30pm schedule.
Can I use foreign nursing degrees?
Yes, provided they are accompanied by a recognized formal equivalency validation.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Lexington VA Health Care System is a proud pillar of the community, providing comprehensive care across central and southern Kentucky. With two major campuses and several outpatient clinics, we serve as a premier interdisciplinary teaching facility. Forbes has ranked us among the top workplaces in Kentucky, and our commitment to "whole health" care is reflected in everything we do.