ATLANTA, GA (February 16, 2006) – The American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Inc. (AAOHN) today released its 2006 public policy platform. This year’s public policy platform carries over the major policy priorities identified in 2005 and includes a number of enhancements recognizing the unique and changing role of occupational and environmental health nurses (OHNs) in contributing to healthful and safe work and community environments.

"In developing this year’s public policy platform, AAOHN received input from state legislative coordinators and other AAOHN Advocates who work at the grassroots level, as well as input from the general membership," said AAOHN President Susan A. Randolph. "Refinements were made to reflect the evolution of key issues in occupational and environmental health nursing, and to ensure that public policy priorities were consistent with the organization’s ENDS set by the Board of Directors."

AAOHN’s ENDS define what results the association holds its staff accountable for (the impact AAOHN intends to have).

The following issues are addressed in AAOHN’s 2006 public policy priorities:

• All Hazard Preparedness,

• Confidentiality of Health Information,

• Health Promotion, Wellness and Disease Prevention,

• Nurse Licensure Compact,

• Quality of Work Environments for Nurses, and

• Workplace Violence Prevention.

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