How do you become an OHN?

Step 1. Graduate with a BSN or an ADN from an accredited nursing program: To get started, you'll need to meet the educational requirements to become a certified nurse. To accomplish this, you'll need either a bachelor's of science (BSN) and nursing or an associate's degree in nursing (ADN). Depending on the state you wish to work in, you may be required to have a BSN.

Step 2. Become a registered nurse by passing the NCLEX examination: Once you've completed your degree, the next step is to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, otherwise known as the NCLEX or NCLEX-RN. The NCLEX is designed to test your knowledge in key areas of nursing to ensure that you are prepared for the challenges of the job. To obtain your state license, you will need to pass the exam.

Step 3. Gain at least two years of nursing experience: Individuals will need to have several years of bedside nursing experience, generally in medical-surgical nursing or intensive care nursing, before transitioning into occupational health.

Step 4. Obtain a position specializing in occupational health nursing: Generally, new graduates are not offered jobs in occupational health directly from nursing school. Even prospective OHNs with a master's degree in public health or nursing will still need to work as an RN before being eligible for an OHN position. However, they may do so for less time than someone with just a BSN.

Step 5. Become certified as an occupational health nurse: There are two possible certifications for OHNs, either the COHN or the COHN-S, but you cannot hold both certifications simultaneously. The certificates are similar but slightly different. You'll want to do your research and see which one is best for your career goals.