Things You Need to Know About Occupational Health Nurse
Dec 5, 2014 | 8:00 am
The occupational health nurse (OHN) has a special position, and it’s oftentimes not in the traditional medical facility. An OHN works with employers and employees, with the duty of observing and assessing the status of workers. Many jobs are hazardous, either because of risks or contagions. These nurses use their education and work experience in prevention planning as well as recognizing symptoms indicative of a problem.
Occupational Health Nurse Duties
Usually, the OHN works with company owners to create health plans and safety protocols that are in the interest of the company. However, this is far from standard protocol, because each company is different and comes with its own risks. Ultimately, these programs and safety procedures protect workers from the risk of illness and death, and also the company from wrongful death lawsuits.
As a nurse, your primary job is always patient advocacy, so this is your concentration in occupational health, is to watch out for the employee. You will be working with employees in observation and interviewing, including following up, referring and advance planning. Typically, you face environmental health issues, the potential for job-related injuries or illnesses, rehabilitation issues and disease management. You will also anticipate the worst-case scenario in the event of emergency preparation and disaster planning.
OHN also counsel workers regarding potential injures and conditions. Ideally, this not only extends to physical ailments, but also emotional problems, and among families. Larger companies that are well managed realize the potential for disaster that comes from emotional issues within workers families, and especially when accompanied by a physical injury. Besides this, these professionals also develop an educational program to help teach workers health responsibility. This not only applies to on-the-job safety, but even in home life where exercise, nutrition and the avoidance of harmful substances is so important.
An Interview with an Occupational Health Nurse
Tracey Yap stated in a YouTube interview that she appreciates her job and role in the profession, as it is one that has “the largest impact in society as a whole.” Indeed, when occupational health nurses collaborate with companies, they create standards by which business can function and health can excel.
The role of the nurse can vary and the duties really depend on what the company does, the product, and the services it offers. Yap added, “It’s about understanding a company’s interest…when employees remain healthy, they remain productive, and so the company can be successful.”
When asked about what was surprising about the profession, she related, “I think when I initially came in, I always saw a nurse as someone who took orders from a doctor. But, we bring uniqueness to the table that’s very much our own.” Taking a course from a university allowed her to enter the field and to spend time researching, working towards her doctorate degree. She also related that the stipend the course offered, “really helped me…I didn’t have to do any other job. I was able to pay for my books, parking, babysitting. It took a huge amount of stress off the family.”
Why not inquire about career possibilities in this profession by reaching out to schools offering beginning programs?