Introduction:

Occupational health nursing (OHN) is a challenging field of practice. It requires a strong background in nursing essentials, plus knowledge of legal and regulatory issues which are unique to occupational health. The information provided in this section will describe, in broad terms, the regulations that apply in the OHN setting; how these regulations are promulgated; and where to find reliable sources of information. This knowledge will enhance the OHN’s practice and the quality of care provided.

This module is part of the 19-module OHN Prep Course Package.

Learning Objectives:

● Describe, broadly, the legal and regulatory requirements affecting the practice of occupational health nursing

● Identify primary sources of non-regulatory guidance for occupational health nursing practice

● Explain the regulatory process for occupational health laws and regulations

● Describe confidentiality issues regarding OSHA inspections

● Identify reliable resources for further inquiry

Major Takeaways:

● Occupational health nursing is regulated much the same way as other nursing practice.

● Additional regulatory considerations provide direction in unique OHN practice situations.

● Reliable reference resources are essential, particularly because OHN practice is frequently performed in a single practice setting or solo.

Lecturer:

• Elise Handelman, MS, RN, is a recognized occupational health nurse specialist. She served nearly 20 years at OSHA as the Director of the Office of Occupational Health Nursing where she provided advice and guidance on occupational health in standard setting, public policy, training and enforcement at the federal level. Elise is a nationally recognized expert and has published numerous articles and presented at national meetings promoting worker safety. 

The University of Colorado College of Nursing is approved as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the Colorado Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. A maximum of 0.5 contact hours is available for this course. For questions about contact hours, please email nursingce@ucdenver.edu.

This course covers topics outlined in the ABOHN Candidate Handbooks for COHN and COHN-S.

Criteria for Successful Completion: You must fully complete this module and all assessment questions, along with the OHN Prep module survey.

Conflicts of Interest: No individuals in a position to control content for this activity has any relevant financial relationships to declare.

Commercial Support: There is no commercial support being received for this event.

Expiration date for Enduring Materials: Origination Date: May 1, 2020 through Expiration Date: May 1, 2022

Joint Providers: This activity is being jointly provided by the University of Colorado College of Nursing Office of Continuing Education, The Center for Health, Work & Environment at the Colorado School of Public Health and The Johns Hopkins Education and Research Center for Occupational Safety and Health at the Bloomberg School of Public Health.

The Center for Health, Work & Environment at the Colorado School of Public Health has partnered with the The Johns Hopkins Education and Research Center for Occupational Safety and Health at the Bloomberg School of Public Health to deliver continuing education to occupational health nurses.