There are many steps that you need to take if you want to pursue a career as an occupational health nurse. To become a registered nurse you must first be licensed, then attend an accredited program and pass the NCLEXRN exam. You also need to have two years of experience as a professional nurse. You will prefer a job that is focused on occupational health nursing. Here are the steps you must take:
Becoming a registered nursing assistant
If you're interested in working with workers, becoming an occupational health nurse may be a great choice. Every workplace comes with its hazards. An occupational health nursing nurse is well-equipped to address these risks and offer medical care on the job. An occupational health nurse can help prevent workplace injuries and accidents and develop plans to reduce the risk of work-related illnesses and injuries. The Master of Public Health degree can prepare you to work in occupational health care.
While being an occupational healthcare nurse is a rewarding career, it's not possible to make a living as a nurse. You should get a nursing diploma if your goal is to earn a higher income. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing and an Associate of Science in Nursing are the minimum requirements. Both of these degrees take two or four years to complete. After you have earned your degree, the National Council Licensure Examination will be required. Each state will have different requirements for licensure.
Earn a certification as a COHN
Occupational health nurses can earn COHN certification by taking the national examination. It is different than licensure. COHN certification means that you have met higher standards than the licensing boards. It is a symbol that a person has advanced knowledge in occupational nursing. This certification requires passing a national exam. Many nurses strive to be certified whether they are seeking it for professional or personal reasons. After you receive your certification, it is possible to work in any environment and with all stages of a patient's recovery.
The computer-based COHN exam contains 160 multiple choice questions. The pretest questions assess your knowledge. These questions can be divided into two categories that focus on occupational health nursing. The four roles of an OHN are the basis for two of the main categories. These roles can then be subdivided in to subcategories. The four subcategories include assessment, planning and implementation.
Many settings allow you to work.
A registered nurse who focuses his or her work on safety at work is the occupational health nurse. As part of their job, occupational health nurses assess and plan for worker safety and help to prevent injury. They can also administer vaccines, perform routine checks, and provide general nursing care. This career can pay a high salary, but it depends on your education, experience, location and company size. Occupational health nursing is a great choice if you're looking to be flexible and challenge yourself.
OSHA nurses have many responsibilities. This career path allows you to expand your skills and expertise while preparing for the ever-growing need for occupational health services. Many occupational nurses are responsible for organizing patient files, schedules, test results, and work space. Occupational health nurses must also maintain clean work areas. You must be organized, and you should have good time management skills.
Renew your license
To remain a practicing occupational health nurse in Texas, you must renew your license. Online renewals are possible or you can fill out a paper renewal form. Your license expires after the renewal deadline. You are no longer eligible to practice law until your license is reissued. You can be fined up to $1,000 for practicing after the expiration day. In certain cases, you could also face disciplinary actions.
To maintain your license, you must complete continuing education. You must complete at least 50 continuing education units related to your area of specialty. These can be completed online or in person. The American Board for Occupational Health Nurses has flexible CEU options. You can reapply for licensure after you have completed all of your CEUs. Alternately, you may take a COHN exam to obtain your certification.