Occupational Health Nurse

Answer 1

The occupational health nurse is a registered nurse who works not only to provide medical treatment, but also to recognize and prevent adverse health effects from hazardous exposures. They may be hired by large employers and government agencies to assess and treat workers’ injuries and illnesses. They are charged not only to observe the worker, but to also observe the work place to maintain a safe, healthy working environment. They may work to create and maintain health and safety programs.

These nurses must be specially trained to recognize hazards in the work place, and be prepared to act as first responders to workers who have sustained an injury, or become ill, while on the job. They must evaluate the worker’s history and current condition. They are often charged with the duty of preparing official documentation of injuries and illnesses. These nurses are often employed by manufacturing facilities where on-the-job injuries are common, and where immediate medical treatment is important. They are also becoming a fixture in corporate offices, administering minor first aid, and screening employees who are returning to duty from an accident or illness.

Although most occupational health nurses (OHNs) are registered nurses, they may possess varying degrees of education. Specialized education beyond nursing school or college is available from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Some organizations require that their Occupational Health Nurses possess a Bachelor’s Degree or higher in the field of nursing.

Nurses must be licensed by the state in which they work. Often, continuing education is required to maintain licensure. Qualifications may vary from state to state.

Corporations and government agencies have recognized the value of the occupational health nurse. These nurses typically receive a lucrative salary. A recent report indicates that the average annual salary for OHN’s across the country is just above $65,000. As with most jobs, training, experience, and geographical location pay a role in salary determination.

Occupational Health Nurses are important employees of many companies. These health care professionals are usually subject to regular working hours, and limited overtime. They rarely have to be concerned about shift work, or other concerns that many nurses working in hospitals contend with.