Advanced Nurse Practitioner (APRN) - Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner (OHNP)

Position Summary:

The Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner (OHNP) is a specialized healthcare professional who focuses on promoting and maintaining the health and well-being of employees in the workplace. The OHNP works in collaboration with employers, employees, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive occupational health services and ensure a safe and healthy work environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Health Promotion and Prevention:

Develop and implement health promotion programs to enhance employee wellness and prevent work-related illnesses and injuries.

Conduct health education sessions and provide individualized counseling to employees on topics such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and ergonomic practices.

Promote healthy lifestyle choices and encourage employee participation in wellness initiatives.

Occupational Health Assessment:

Perform comprehensive health assessments, including medical history review, physical examinations, and specialized tests, to evaluate an employee's fitness for work.

Assess and manage work-related injuries and illnesses, including providing initial care, facilitating referrals, and monitoring treatment plans.

Conduct pre-employment medical screenings, periodic health evaluations, and return-to-work assessments.

Workplace Hazard Identification and Control:

Collaborate with employers and safety professionals to identify workplace hazards and assess the potential health risks to employees.

Develop and implement strategies to control and mitigate workplace hazards, including ergonomic interventions, personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations, and engineering controls.

Participate in occupational health and safety committees to provide expertise and guidance on health-related matters.

Case Management and Coordination:

Coordinate and manage employee health cases, including maintaining accurate medical records, tracking work-related illnesses/injuries, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

Collaborate with healthcare providers, insurers, and other stakeholders to facilitate appropriate treatment, rehabilitation, and return-to-work plans.

Advocate for employees' health and safety rights, including disability accommodations and workplace modifications.

Research and Policy Development:

Stay updated with current research, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements related to occupational health.

Contribute to the development and implementation of occupational health policies and protocols within the organization.

Conduct research and analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of occupational health programs and recommend improvements.

Qualifications and Skills:

Valid registered nurse (RN) license and advanced practice nurse (APN) certification as a Nurse Practitioner.

Specialized training or certification in occupational health nursing is preferred.

Strong knowledge of occupational health and safety regulations, guidelines, and best practices.

Experience in conducting health assessments, managing occupational injuries/illnesses, and providing primary care.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate effectively with employees, employers, and multidisciplinary teams.

Proficient in utilizing electronic health records (EHR) systems and other relevant software applications.

Ability to maintain confidentiality, demonstrate ethical conduct, and adhere to professional standards.

Note: The specific responsibilities and requirements of an Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner may vary depending on the organization, industry, and regional regulations. This job description provides a general overview of the role's key aspects.