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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
There are hazards in all types of workplaces, from retail stores to offices to construction sites. Workplace hazards can include chemicals, obstructions, machinery, or even employee carelessness and computer screens.
Occupational health is a field that involves identifying and controlling workplace hazards. Professionals in this field work to make sure that workplaces stay safe and employees stay healthy. Occupational health nurses attempt to prevent injuries and illnesses related to workplaces and care for employees that have gotten hurt or ill.
Occupational health nurses work closely with both employers and employees to ensure that workers stay safe in their working environments. They also work to make sure that workers suffering from workplace-related injuries and illnesses get the care they need.
Communication skills are an absolute must if you’re looking to become an occupational health nurse. You must be able to effectively communicate with employers, employees, medical professionals, and insurance companies. Teaching skills are also important, as you’ll often be educating individuals on workplace safety. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are equally important.
Occupational health nurses work to prevent, investigate, and treat workplace-related illnesses and injuries.
To prevent workplace injuries and illnesses, occupational health nurses assess workplaces to identify possible hazards. These nurses also educate employers and employees on how to prevent accidents and injuries. They may suggest changes in procedures or develop other ways to make workplaces safer. Occupational health nurses also make sure that workplaces comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Act or OSHA standards.
When an employee claims that an illness or injury is related to his work, an occupational health nurse will also investigate the incident’s circumstances. For instance, they may look at an employee’s medical charts to determine whether a workplace hazard could have caused the injury or illness. These nurses may also perform drug and alcohol tests and investigate the causes of workplace accidents. This is often necessary for workman’s compensation and medical insurance claims.
Treating employees that get hurt or ill due to workplace hazards is another important responsibility of occupational health nurses. This may include tending to injuries, administering medication, and performing rehabilitation therapy after certain injuries.
Occupational nurses will also screen new and prospective employees to ensure that they can perform the duties required by their positions. This may include a physical examination, vision test, hearing test, and drug or alcohol screening.
Occupational health nurses can often find employment in hospitals and clinics. However, many employers and companies will also hire these nursing professionals. They work in all industries and all different types of workplaces.