COHN(C) case studies
COHN(C) · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The Certified Occupational Health Nurse (COHN) credential is a specialty certification for registered nurses who practice in workplace settings - manufacturing plants, hospitals, utilities, construction, transportation, government, and corporate health services. It signals that a nurse has moved beyond general clinical competence into the distinct body of knowledge occupational health requires: recognizing workplace exposures, interpreting surveillance data, managing injury and illness in the context of employment, and applying the regulatory and ethical framework that governs worker health. The COHN(C) case studies are 5 cases and about 2,469 words.
1Heat Stress at the Foundry: A Worker Who Won't Stop Working
It is July, and the indoor temperature on the furnace floor of a small aluminum foundry reaches 38°C (100°F) with radiant heat from three open furnaces. A 47-year-old pourer with 12 years' tenure has hypertension treated with a thiazide diuretic and a BMI of 34.
547 words, about 3 min2The Night-Shift Nurse with a Positive TB Skin Test
A 29-year-old registered nurse in a 200-bed community hospital reports a positive tuberculin skin test (12 mm induration) at her pre-employment screening. She was born in a country with high TB prevalence, received BCG as an infant, and has no symptoms.
485 words, about 2 min3Return-to-Work After a Rotator Cuff Repair at a Distribution Center
A 38-year-old order selector at a grocery distribution center had arthroscopic rotator cuff repair of the dominant right shoulder six weeks ago. His surgeon's note says "light duty, no lifting over 10 pounds, no overhead work, begin physical therapy" and gives no return-to-work date.
492 words, about 2 min4A Needlestick in the Emergency Department at 2 A.M.
At 2 a.m., a 24-year-old ED nurse sustains a hollow-bore needlestick to the left index finger while recapping a needle after drawing blood from a patient with unknown HIV status who is confused and combative. The wound bled briefly.
516 words, about 3 min5The Wellness Program That Looks Good on Paper
A 900-employee manufacturer launched a wellness program two years ago: an annual health risk assessment, a biometric screening, and a $600 premium reduction for employees who meet targets for BMI, blood pressure, glucose, and nicotine. Participation is 31%.
429 words, about 2 min