Much of what makes Veteran care effective happens outside of what is most visible, and nursing plays a critical role in that often overlooked work. In this episode of Smart Steps, host and Podimetrics Medical Director Gary Rothenberg, DPM, CDCES, CWS, is joined by Helen Kennedy, LPN, and PAVE Nurse at the Ernest Childers OPC VA Clinic, for a grounded conversation about frontline nursing within the VA care model.

The discussion explores how nurses support patient outcomes through clinical judgment, relationship building, and close collaboration with the broader care team. Helen shares real-world examples of how early signals are recognized, how trust supports adherence, and how nursing insight helps translate care plans into meaningful, day-to-day action for Veterans managing complex conditions.

This episode brings attention to nursing responsibilities that are essential yet often underrecognized, while reinforcing the importance of team-based care. It offers providers a clearer understanding of how nursing experience, consistency, and coordination help sustain high-quality Veteran care over time.