"Safeguarding the Unsung Workforce: The Expanding Role of Occupational Health Nursing in Rural and Informal Work Sectors"

Occupational health nursing (OHN) has traditionally focused on formal employment sectors; however, with the rise of informal employment and the persistence of occupational hazards in rural areas, the need for community-based occupational health interventions is more urgent than ever. This review explores the pivotal role of occupational health nurses (OHNs) in addressing the unique health needs of workers in rural and informal sectors. It highlights challenges such as lack of regulation, inadequate access to healthcare, and exposure to occupational hazards, while emphasizing evidence-based strategies, policy frameworks, and the transformative potential of nurses in these under-resourced settings.