Occupational health nursing in Finland

Abstract

In Finland occupational health services are stipulated by the law. The services are primarily directed at preventive measures and the achievement of a better working environment. The coverage of occupational health services is about 90%. Occupational health nurses are public health nurses in Finland. Moreover, they have the opportunity to have 4 weeks' complementary schooling and postgraduate education from universities or nursing colleges. There are about 1,900 occupational health nurses in Finland. On the one hand occupational health nurses work independently; on the other hand, they work as a member of a team. Their work consists of environmental surveys and health education (based on working conditions and health habits), including first aid training, health examination, counseling, and treatment in case of illness.