A remembrance of the past, an investment for the future

Occupational health nursing has evolved from a single dimension practice into a complex role providing primary care, health maintenance, and disease prevention programs at the worksite. The focus of the 1990s will be on managed care, health care reform, and competition for resources. Occupational health nurses are in a strategic position to foster the objectives set forth in Healthy People 2000. Occupational health nurses must take the lead in the development and implementation of cost effective health care programs at the worksite. Occupational health nurses must communicate and demonstrate the nature and value of their contributions; demonstrate their competencies; and become knowledgeable in all areas of occupational health and safety. They must acknowledge that they are leaders in workplace health and safety.