Scientific Sessions

Occupational Health Nursing plays a critical role in promoting and maintaining the health, safety, and well-being of employees across diverse workplaces. This specialized field of nursing focuses on preventing work-related injuries, illnesses, and hazards while fostering a safe and healthy work environment. Occupational health nurses (OHNs) serve as vital links between employees, employers, and healthcare systems, conducting risk assessments, implementing health surveillance programs, and ensuring compliance with occupational safety regulations. Their responsibilities extend beyond immediate health care to include education on safe work practices, ergonomics, stress management, and disease prevention. They work proactively to identify potential occupational hazards—such as chemical exposure, noise, repetitive strain, or psychological stress—and recommend measures to mitigate these risks. By integrating evidence-based practices, OHNs contribute to reducing absenteeism, improving productivity, and enhancing overall workforce well-being.

In addition to clinical expertise, occupational health nursing demands strong skills in policy development, health promotion, and emergency preparedness. OHNs often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including occupational physicians, safety officers, and human resources professionals, to design and implement workplace wellness initiatives. Their scope of practice also involves supporting employees with chronic conditions, facilitating rehabilitation, and ensuring a smooth return-to-work process after illness or injury. Furthermore, in today’s dynamic work environment, occupational health nurses are adapting to challenges such as remote work ergonomics, pandemic response protocols, and the mental health impact of job-related stress. Their role has evolved to encompass counseling, advocacy, and research aimed at improving occupational health standards globally. As industries recognize the link between employee well-being and organizational success, the demand for skilled occupational health nurses continues to grow, making this nursing specialty an essential pillar of public and workplace health.