Roles and value added contributions of the occupational health nurse. Corporate perceptions

This study replicated a study by Martin (1993) to examine the corporate perceptions of the current and future roles and activities of the occupational health nurse and the nurse's value added contributions in the local operating units of a large Fortune 100 company. A descriptive design was used for this study. The sample consisted of 44 corporate officials. The study findings are consistent with Martin (1993) and suggested that management is aware of the traditional roles and activities of the nurse, including direct care, education and counseling, and case management. The desired future activities identified were trend analysis, conducting plant rounds, and developing health programs specific to the needs of the corporation. The activities identified as adding value to the corporation included: planning and developing educational programs specific to the needs of the corporation, supervising the provision of nursing care, assisting in rehabilitation of injured workers, and providing follow up on workers' compensation claims. Corporate officials are aware of the traditional roles of the nurse. However, they may not be aware of the newer nursing roles, such as trend analysis, research, and budget development.