COHN Occupational Case Management Questions and Answers

Question 1

An employee has been out of work for three weeks following a back injury sustained at work. The occupational health nurse, acting as a case manager, is developing a return-to-work (RTW) plan. Which of the following is the MOST critical initial step in this process?

Accepted Answer

Obtaining a detailed medical report and work restrictions from the treating physician.

Answer

The foundation of any successful and safe return-to-work plan is a clear understanding of the employee's current medical status and physical limitations as determined by their treating physician. This information dictates all subsequent steps, including identifying appropriate modified duties and assessing functional capacity.

Question 2

What is the primary goal of occupational case management from the employer's perspective?

Accepted Answer

To minimize the employee's time away from work and control associated costs.

Answer

Occupational case management aims to facilitate a safe and timely return to work for an injured or ill employee. This benefits the employer by controlling costs associated with workers' compensation, disability, and lost productivity, while also supporting the employee's recovery.

Question 3

An employee with a history of anxiety requests a modified work schedule as an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As the case manager, what is the occupational health nurse's initial responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Engage in an interactive process with the employee to understand the limitations and explore reasonable accommodations.

Answer

The ADA requires employers to engage in a good-faith interactive process when an employee requests an accommodation. This involves a dialogue between the employer and employee to identify the precise limitations resulting from the disability and explore potential reasonable accommodations that would allow the employee to perform essential job functions.

Question 4

Which of the following is a key function of an occupational health nurse in the role of a case manager?

Accepted Answer

Coordinating communication between the employee, healthcare providers, and the employer.

Answer

A central role of the occupational health nurse case manager is to act as a liaison, ensuring clear and consistent communication among all stakeholders. This facilitates a coordinated approach to care, recovery, and a safe return to work.

Question 5

A manufacturing employee is diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition potentially aggravated by their job tasks. In managing this case, the occupational health nurse should prioritize which of the following interventions?

Accepted Answer

Conducting an ergonomic assessment of the employee's workstation.

Answer

A primary principle of occupational health is to identify and mitigate workplace hazards. An ergonomic assessment helps to identify risk factors in the employee's job tasks and environment that may be causing or exacerbating the condition. Addressing these factors is crucial for both recovery and prevention of future injury.

COHN Exam Practice Test

COHN Exam Practice Test

COHN Occupational Case Management Questions and Answers