COHN - Certified Occupational Health Nurse

The Certified Occupational Health Nurse (COHN) certification is a professional credential for registered nurses who specialize in occupational health. Administered by the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses (ABOHN), this certification is a mark of expertise in the practice of occupational health nursing. It demonstrates a nurse's proficiency in developing, implementing, and managing occupational health services aimed at promoting health and safety in the workplace. The COHN certification is designed for nurses who provide health and safety programs, disease management, case management, and wellness strategies within the work environment.

Completion Time: 3 hours

Cost: $400 exam fee plus $150 application fee

Exam Format

The COHN exam includes 160 multiple-choice questions (135 scored, 25 unscored) covering core occupational health nursing competencies, including health promotion, health maintenance, regulatory and research standards, and direct care.

Topics also include occupational disease prevention, workplace hazard detection, and emergency preparedness.

A passing score is determined by a scaled percentage of correctly answered questions.

Eligibility criteria include an RN license and documented hours of experience in occupational health nursing.

The application process involves submitting proof of professional experience and educational qualifications.

If unsuccessful on the exam, candidates can reapply following ABOHN’s reexamination policies.

COHN certification must be renewed every 5 years.

Renewal involves fulfilling continuing education requirements and submitting a recertification application with a fee.

Continuing education requirements include a specific number of contact hours in occupational health or related fields.

Detailed records of these activities must be maintained and submitted during the recertification process.

For the most current and detailed information regarding Certified Occupational Health Nurse certification, including application guidelines, exam schedules, study materials, and renewal processes, it is advised to refer directly to the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses (ABOHN) website.

ABOHN provides study materials, including a detailed content outline, references, and practice tests.

Additional resources may include relevant textbooks, continuing education courses, and workshops in occupational health nursing.

A current, unrestricted RN license and experience in the field of occupational health nursing are required.

After obtaining COHN certification, nurses may pursue advanced certifications in occupational health nursing or related specialties.

The ABOHN also offers the following certifications:

• Certified Occupational Health Nurse-Specialist (COHN-S)

• Occupational Health Nursing Case Management (OHNCM)

Other related certifications include the CAOHC Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC).