Hello Mandy,An approach to getting a screening nurse role might be "what do I have do to become to be the preferred applicant?"
A screening nurse is likely to be be undertaking audiometry , spirometry, vision screening using a box screener (or alternatively it may be a Snellen chart and ishihara/City university colour test), BMI calculations, possibly vaccinations and venepuncture. The may do some health promotion in terms of cholestrol finger prick tests and BP measurement
If you do not have formal training in the above, start acquiring it. Invest in yourself (although I do understand you will be paying out for the the degree already)
An introduction to audiometry or spirometry is usually two days, vision screening one day.Some of the agencies put on this training as do the manufacturers of the spirometers and audiometers. Check out the back of Occupational Health Magazine for courses and ask practitioners: there is a Facebook page associated with this group "UK Occupational Health Practitioners" where you can ask about things that are commercial, such as study days and jobs
To most of us the fact that you have been a district nurse will not have much meaning except that you are a nurse and able to drive!
You probably have transferable skills, but you haven't sold yourself...
Have you had training and experience in giving vaccinations and venepunture as part of this role?
have a look here
pages 9-11 are relavant.
Think about things like "familiar with lone working and peripatetic role", "good at time management and managing workloads".
Have a think about this, as well as how far you are prepared to travel,whether you are prepared to spend unpaid time with practitioners in order to acquire these skills, explain what has motivated you to change to occupational health, and post again.
Cheers
Diane Romano-WoodwardRN RSCPHN-OH BSc M Med Sc.(Occ Health)
Sunny Blue Sky Limited
Company Number 06865212
Winner of Occupational Health Magazine Occupational Health Nurse of the Year 2012
