Final answer:
An occupational health nurse joins the AAOHN to leverage a variety of benefits including promoting worker health and safety, influencing workforce legislation, advancing the field through research, continuing education, and obtaining specialist certification.
Step-by-step explanation:
An occupational health nurse might join the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses (AAOHN) for several professional and career-advancing reasons. By joining this type of organization, they can:
- Promote the health and safety of workers: Aligning with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) aims, nurses can work towards safeguarding workplace environments.
- Lobby in Congress for safer workplaces: Nurses may influence policy and contribute to legislative changes that improve working conditions.
- Advance the profession by supporting research: Members can participate in cutting-edge research that elevates the standard of occupational health practices.
- Promote and provide continuing education in the specialty: The AAOHN offers resources for ongoing learning, critical for staying current with industry standards and best practices.
- Obtain certification as a specialist in occupational health nursing: Certification can validate a nurse's expertise in the field and may lead to greater professional opportunities.