An occupational health nurse(OHN) is an RN who works independently in the workplace to ensure the overall safety and well-being of the employees in that workplace. You will need to be certified in the same state of employment and have a COHN, certification to operate as an OHN.
Observation and Assessment
As an OHN, you will observe the workplace and assess any potential hazards or health effects that may result from the current work environment. Occupational health nurses work in all types of industries ranging from construction to manufacturing to health care.
Work Environment Appraisals
You will provide routine work environment appraisals to management on an ongoing basis. This report would include any potential exposures in the workplace as well as any abnormalities you have identified from your observations.
Documentation
You will also be required to document and maintain all records associated with workplace injuries or illnesses. This includes any occupational and nonoccupational injuries and illnesses.
Education
An undergraduate degree in nursing is required along with successful completion of an RN. It is also important to note that you are required to be registered with the same state in which you are employed.
Certification
To function as an occupational health nurse, you will need to obtain a COHN certification. COHN stands for certified occupational health nurse, and certification is administered by the American Board for Occupational Health Nursing.
Tags: COHN certification, health nurse, injuries illnesses, occupational health, occupational health nurse, same state
