What is an Occupational Health Nurse?

An occupational health nurse (OHN) maintains a safe and healthy work environment, making sure workplaces are safe and employees are healthy. Their roles go beyond traditional nursing and combine healthcare with safety practices and organizational needs. 

OHNs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, office buildings, government buildings, factories, and construction sites. The main goal of an occupational health nurse is to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses, promote healthy habits among employees, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. By conducting regular health checks, providing emergency care, and advising on ergonomic practices, OHNs help reduce absenteeism and boost productivity. 

OHN responsibilities and key roles 

Occupational health nurses have a range of responsibilities that include conducting health screenings, assessments, pre-employment exams, routine health check-ups, and monitoring employees' health over time. These regular assessments help catch potential health problems early, allowing for timely treatment and prevention of serious problems. 

OHNs are also responsible for creating and overseeing health and safety programs. These programs address specific workplace needs, such as ergonomics, hazardous materials, and mental health. An occupational health nurse will often offer training sessions and workshops to raise awareness about health risks and promote healthier lifestyle choices. 

When accidents or emergencies occur at work, OHNs provide immediate care. They are trained to handle a variety of medical situations, from minor injuries to serious incidents that require urgent attention. Their quick response helps limit the impact of injuries and prevents complications. 

Managing chronic conditions among employees is another important role. OHNs work with individuals who have ongoing health issues, like diabetes or hypertension, helping them manage their conditions while minimizing disruption at work. This includes educating employees about their conditions, coordinating with other healthcare providers, and keeping track of medication. 

Advocacy and collaboration 

OHNs also act as a link between employees, management, and external health agencies. They advocate for employee health needs, making sure that management understands and addresses health concerns. This role is crucial for creating a culture of health and safety in the workplace. OHNs often work with public health agencies, occupational health physicians, and safety officers to ensure comprehensive care and compliance with regulations. 

Education, skills and knowledge 

Becoming an occupational health nurse requires candidates to first become a registered nurse (RN). A common way to do this is by completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and then taking the NCLEX-RN exam. Some occupational health nurses continue their education and earn a Master of Science (MSN) in Nursing. Certification for occupational health nurses can be achieved through The American Board for Occupational Health Nurses, Inc. 

To be effective, occupational health nurses need a broad set of skills. Clinical skills are crucial for performing medical assessments, administering treatments, and handling emergencies. They also need strong communication skills to explain health information to employees and management clearly. Problem-solving skills are important too, as OHNs need to identify health risks and develop solutions. 

Knowledge of workplace laws and regulations is essential. OHNs must understand guidelines from organizations like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), as well as workers' compensation laws and other relevant legislation. Staying updated on these requirements helps OHNs ensure their organizations are compliant and avoid legal issues. 

Impact on organizations 

Occupational health nurses can have a significant impact on an organization. By focusing on health and safety, OHNs help lower the number of work-related injuries and illnesses. This reduces healthcare costs for the company and cuts down on lost workdays, which can lead to higher productivity. Additionally, a focus on employee health can boost morale and job satisfaction, leading to better employee retention and a positive workplace atmosphere. 

Adapting to changes and future trends 

The role of an occupational health nurse continues to evolve due to changes in the workplace and advancements in healthcare. For example, the rise of remote work has introduced new challenges. OHNs now must address health and safety for employees who work from home, including issues like ergonomics and mental health. A growing emphasis on mental health in the workplace has also expanded the role of occupational health nurses to include offering employees’ support and interventions that promote well-being. 

Jobs for occupational health nurses are expected to grow through 2028, with 195,400 new jobs for occupational health nurses added over the next decade. A survey conducted by the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses found that employers value the role of occupational health nurses, saying OHNs assist with OSHA guidelines, advising leadership, illness case management, return to work coordination, and leading educational seminars that promote good health.  

OHNs have also taken an active role in interpreting and implementing regulations and standards related to COVID-19, including providing COVID tests and vaccines.  

Occupational health nurses can add value to any organization, working to ensure the health and safety of employees. Through health assessments, emergency care, management of chronic conditions, and health education, OHNs help create a safer and healthier work environment.  

Their work benefits not only individual employees but also the overall success and efficiency of the organization. As workplaces evolve, the role of the occupational health nurse will continue to be essential, adapting to new challenges and promoting a culture of health and safety.