What does an Occupational Health Nurse do?
Published 4 min read
An occupational health nurse is a registered nurse who specializes in promoting the health and well-being of employees in the workplace. They work with employers to develop and implement health and safety programs, and they provide education and counseling on topics such as stress management, nutrition, and exercise. They also conduct health screenings and surveillance, and provide treatment for work-related injuries and illnesses.
Occupational Health Nurse job duties include:
- Promote and maintain the health of workers by providing comprehensive occupational health services
- Conduct initial and periodic health assessments of workers, including physical examinations, health history reviews, and exposure assessments
- Identify and evaluate worker health risks, including exposure to hazardous materials and ergonomic risks
- Develop and implement health surveillance programs for early detection of work-related injuries and illnesses
- Provide counseling and education to workers on health risks and disease prevention
- Collaborate with employers to develop and implement workplace health and safety programs
- Coordinate the provision of medical care for workers with work-related injuries or illnesses
- Monitor compliance with occupational health and safety regulations
- Keep abreast of new developments in occupational health
Occupational Health Nurse Job Requirements
An Occupational Health Nurse is a Registered Nurse with specialized training in occupational health and safety. They are responsible for promoting and maintaining the health of employees in the workplace. They may also provide health services, such as immunizations and screenings, and conduct health and safety programs. To become an Occupational Health Nurse, one must first obtain a nursing degree and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). After becoming a Registered Nurse, they must then complete a course of study in occupational health nursing, which can be obtained through a variety of colleges and universities.
Occupational Health Nurse Skills
- Assessing employee health
- Conducting health screenings
- Administering vaccinations
- Educating employees on health and safety topics
- Maintaining employee health records
- Investigating workplace injuries and illnesses
- Coordinating return-to-work programs
- Developing and implementing wellness programs
- Consulting with employers on health and safety issues
- Serving as a resource on occupational health issues
- Monitoring compliance with OSHA regulations
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How to become an Occupational Health Nurse
An Occupational Health Nurse (OHN) is a registered nurse who specializes in the promotion and maintenance of the health and safety of workers in the workplace. OHNs work with employers and employees to identify and control health hazards in the workplace, and to develop and implement health and safety programs. OHNs also provide health services to workers, including health assessments, immunizations, and first aid.
To become an OHN, you must first complete a registered nursing program and obtain a nursing license. Many OHNs have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, although some have a master’s degree or higher. In addition to completing a registered nursing program, OHNs must also complete a course of study in occupational health nursing. This course of study can be completed through an accredited OHN program or through a variety of other educational opportunities, such as continuing education courses, online courses, or conferences.
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