need certification?

[docomo]

Hi, someone pls give me their insight on Occupation Health Nursing. I'm a RN in Texas (new grad, no certifications, but I do have healthcare experience as a medic in the army for 12 years).

I saw a job advertisement for occupational health nurse. Can I apply for the job or am I required to obtain certification as an Occupational Health nurse before the BON will allow me to work in that field ?

The position says "Certified Occupational Health Nurse preferred", but I'm not sure if there are anyway BON rules that would prevent me from applying

Thanks

[AngPoe]

Is an occupational nurse the same as a clinical nurse specialist?

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

A Certified Occupational Health Nurse is an RN who has opted to take the exam. The BON has nothing to do with specialty certifications for RNs. This certification is obtained through the American Board of Occupational Health Nurses.

[hiddencatRN, BSN, RN]

The position says preferred, not required, right? That'll be your answer.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

PP is correct. Specialty practice certifications are granted by a number of different specialty organizations. The most widely known is ANA, but for Occupational Health, it is ABOHN. It is not a 'beginner level' certification. In order to become certified as an OHN, you have to have 3000 hours of practice in that specialty area. You can achieve COHN with any level of nursing education but you will need a BSN to obtain COHN-S certification. Here is the web site with all info American Board of Occupational Health Nurses.

Good luck