Citation

Bowman K. AAOHN J. 2005; 53(5): 198-201.

Affiliation

Occupational & Environmental Health Nursing Program, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Publisher Healio)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

15909873

Abstract

To fully appreciate risks and hazards associated with work, it is critical for occupational and environmental health nurses to understand the nature of work and the context of the work environment. Conditions at work vary widely, and the individualâ??s experience of work is influenced by a host of factors. Often, an examination of the work environment is limited to the immediate surroundings and the day-to-day experiences of workers. A broad view of work includes an examination of the influence of the organization itself, its mission, and its management and leadership styles. It is also important to recognize that the health and safety of workers can be affected by conditions outside the workplace. Thus, taking this notion to the next level of influence, one would consider the multitude of social, cultural, political, and economic factors that permeate every aspect of society, including the work environments. Researchers are only beginning to examine the far-reaching effects of these less tangible, though profound, influences on work-related experiences and workers' health and safety.