Scope of Practice for Occupational Health Nurses: A Concept Analysis Based on Walker and Avant Methods

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the concept of scope of practice for occupational health nurses. Background. Occupational health nurses (OHNs) practice in different industries alone or with other nurses, providing care to employees. The demand on occupational health nurses to respond to increasing organizational healthcare needs of employees and other healthcare demands raises the question, do occupational health nurses understand their scope of practice? Occupational health nurses inadvertently practicing outside their scope may jeopardize their nursing licenses, and the safety and quality of care of employees. Method. A literature review was conducted to identify defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences for the concept of scope of practice for OHNs. Walker and Avant’s eight-step framework for concept analysis was applied. Results. The defining attributes of the scope of practice for OHN include but are not limited to standards and guidelines: competency, public safety; practicing certificates; using sound judgement; regulatory restrictions, limitations of practice in occupational health settings, and type of educational qualifications. The antecedents include education, training, competency, regulation, and experience. The consequences include improved quality care when education, training, and competencies are met within the practice guidelines. Possible disciplinary actions against the nurse and employer violation of workplace safety standards may occur. Conclusion. OHNs must understand and practice within their scope of practice even when placed in situations by their employers that could defy the limits of their practice. Defining the scope of practice for OHNs will lay the framework for research studies.