The Occupational Health Nurse as the Trusted Clinician in the 21st Century

Abstract

Occupational health nurses as trusted clinicians use their direct care skills in both on-site and off-site roles to protect human resources and contain health care costs. On-site clinics leverage the knowledge, skills, and abilities of occupational health nurses. To maximize the health of the work force, occupational health nurses use strategies aimed at improving health, engaging employees, enhancing accountability of employees, linking provider strategies, using technology creatively, and promoting healthy work environments. Occupational health nurses maintain a proactive and effective impact on occupational health and safety as part of a broader framework of holistic primary care.