HISTORY OF SOUTH CAROLINA STATE ASSOCIATION
OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSES, INC.
Industrial medicine began to develop after passage of the Workmen’s Compensation
Act in the mid-thirties, and accident prevention became a part of every plant’s policy.
Management, about this time, also became aware of the need for pre-employment physical
examinations for the detection of physical defects.
Occupational Health Nursing received its greatest impetus during World War II, when all
major industries began to employ nurses. In July 1942, the State Board of Health in South
Carolina employed its first Occupational Health Nursing Consultant, Mrs. Rose H. Clark,
who was appointed to the Industrial Division to help promote nursing programs in all plants.
One and one-half years later, a second consultant, Mrs. Lula Exum was appointed to assist
her.
In 1943, Mrs. Clark planned a meeting to organize the South Carolina Association of
Industrial Nurses. She wrote to industry management to encourage and assist their nurses
to go to a meeting in Columbia, S.C. About thirty-six nurses met there and elected officers.
The first President was Mary Mills of Beaumont Mills in Spartanburg. It was decided by
vote to meet quarterly, one meeting to be held with the State Safety Conference, and one
with the State Nurses Association. Mrs. Clark wrote a tentative constitution and a copy was
sent to all members for constructive criticism.
In the mid-fifties, SCSAOHN applied for constituent memberships in the American
Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Inc., and this was granted. We abide by the
rules as set fourth by the National Association.
A newsletter was started in 1962 to disseminate news to all members. On May 7, 1975,
the State Association became incorporated and designated as a non-profit organization.
We now have three meetings a year, one in September, one in February, and the annual
meeting in May. These meetings are a combination business and educational session.
They are geared to meet the educational needs of nurses engaged in the field of
Occupational Health, to prepare them to better promote the health and safety of the worker
in South Carolina.
1943-1993
We have seen the scope and functions of the occupational health nurse increase and
expand significantly in the past 20 years. As work has shifted from manufacturing to the
service sector, the role of the occupational health nurse in providing quality care has also
changed.
Years ago, Industrial Nurses, as they were called, duties consisted mostly of treating
accidents and assisting the physician with treatment of employees and their families.
Industrial medicine began to develop after passage of the Workmen’s Compensation
Act in the mid-thirties, and accident prevention became apart of every plant policy. At this
time management became aware of the need for pre-employment physical examinations
for the detection of physical defects.
Industrial Health Nursing received its greatest impetus during World War II, when all major
industries began to employ nurses. In July 1942, the State Board of Health in S.C.
employed its first Industrial Health Nurse Consultant, Mrs. Rose H. Clark, who was
appointed to the Industrial Division to help promote nursing programs in all plants. One
and One-Half years later, a second consultant, Mrs. Lula Exum was appointed to assist
her.
In 1943, Mrs. Clark planned a meeting to organize the South Carolina State Association of
Industrial Nurses. She wrote to Industry Management to encourage and assist their nurses
to attend a meeting in Columbia, about thirty-six nurses met there and elected officers. The
first president was Mary Mills of Beaumont Mills, Spartanburg. It was decided by vote to
meet quarterly, one meeting to be held with the State Safety Conference, and one with the
State Nurses Association. Mrs. Clark wrote a tentative constitution and a copy was sent to
all member for constructive criticism.
Bylaws were revised in 1944, 1945, 1946, and May 3, 1947.
In the mid-fifties, S.C. applied for constituent membership in the American Association of
Industrial Nurses and was accepted. We abide by the rules as set forth by the national
association. President of the Piedmont Council of the S.C. Industrial Nurses Association,
as they were called then, was Miss Mary White, Industrial Nurse at Fiberglass.
1961
With more than 75 nurses and management in attendance, SCSAIN held their annual
meeting in Greenville at the Elk’s Club. Using a topic familiar and of interest to all
occupational nurses, “Laws and Awards of Workman’s Compensation” was discussed.
1962
In the early and formative years of the association, Evelyn Woodward as President saw a
need for a newsletter to disseminate news to all members. At the time no member would
take on the job. One of the nurses from Spartan Mills agreed for her name to be printed as
Editor if Evelyn put it together and would mail it out. At that time copy machines had not
come into being and for several years the newsletter, which was 4-5 pages in length, was
mimeographed. United Medical and Surgical Supply sponsored the newsletter to the tune
of about $50.00 a year. Finally after much coaxing and begging another member accepted
the job as Newsletter Editor. At this time Southern First Aid wanted to co-sponsor the
newsletter, they assumed responsibility for printing and United Medical paid for the
postage.
It was very difficult in the early years of the Association to get members to serve in the
various offices. They were all “to busy”. At one time a member was bribed to become
President by sending her to a National meeting, all expenses paid. After attending the
meeting and returning home, she resigned the office
Absley McClellan from Sonoco in Hartsville was the First S.C. member to serve two (2)
terms on the National board. Her reign was for (1) term. Evelyn Woodward, from Startex
Mill served two (2) terms on the board. Evelyn was instrumental n keeping the association
together. Several times it came close to folding. She held every office and served on
every committee to keep the association together.
The winter meeting of 1963 was held at “Ye Old Fireplace” in Greenville, with the topic
being “The Low Back Problem In Industry”.
1970–1972
In 1972, the Certified Occupational Health Nurses Program went into effect. (83 nurses,
RNs, became COHNs under the Founder’s Clause). Those from S.C. falling under these
guidelines were:
Mildred Knight
Eva Davenport
Evelyn Woodward
Norma Hedrick
Mary Moore
Janet Ruff
Hereafter, in order to be certified certain criteria had to be met and one was to pass a
written examination. The following were certified by taking the first written examination:
Grace Mitchell
Gloria Cann
Pat Journey
All nurses were from Greenwood, which is very interesting.
April 1972 the By-Laws were revised.
1974-1976
The Association began growing at a very rapid pace under the leadership of Ethel Stafford,
President. During a meeting in Columbia, the idea of presenting scholarships to student
nurses and the mens to sponsor them was discussed. After much thought provoking, plans
were formulated to hve vendors pay a fee and exhibit their products at our annual meeting
in May. This money was to be used strictly to underwrite the scholarship fund.
To make the public aware of Industrial Nurses and their versatility, Governor John West,
declared the first week in December 1974, Industrial Health Nurses Week. Much publicity
went out regarding the association and duties of the nurses.
In May 1975, the association became incorporated and designated as a non-profit
organization. Bylaws were revised and approved by National. South Carolina was
recognized as the only constituent with patron members. A patron member was any
person, agency, organization, or company interested in promoting the purpose of the
organization.
At the annual meeting in May, held in Greenville, at the Greenville County Club, vendors
were introduced.
The student nurse scholarship became a reality. South Carolina was the first constituent in
the nation to award a scholarship. Colleges became aware of our field of nursing as well as
the students. Our grant is listed in the Clemson Student Catalog.
As time goes on, occupational health will gain in importance. Plans are formulated to
continue to solicit vendors for the annual meeting with the profits going into the scholarship
fund. Ethel Stafford and Shirley Robertson appeared on television informing the public of
the duties of the Industrial Nurses. Information regarding the annual meeting was
discussed.
High light of the meeting was Dorothy Saller of New York City, Executive Director of the
American Association of Industrial Nurses delivered the keynote address on Thursday. Her
appearance was an honor for the association.
Membership in the association had grown to 132.
Putting more emphasis on the educational seminars, the association began actively
seeking CEUs for our seminars. This was done by presenting the program title, speakers,
purpose, and objectives to a university to gain approval for CEUs. Permanent colored ID
badges were introduced to the membership for easy recognition: blue for Officers, red for
Directors, and white for members. A new member was to have a ribbon attached to their
badge.
The nurses in the Charleston area formed the Tri-County Association. Judy Coker was
elected President.
Nurses who retired from the field of occupational health were Cora Berry with Judson Mill,
Eva Dvenport, Vivian King, Greenwood Mills and Hazel Bostic, Rockwell International.
In 1976, six nurses from South Carolina attended the American Health Conference in
Cincinnati, Ohio. Contact hours were awarded for the first time to participants.
At the annual meeting, the first scholarship was awarded to Mary Alice Morris of Clemson.
She was the recipient of a $200.00 scholarship. Dean Geralding Labecki form Clemson
accepted the scholarship on behalf of Clemson and Mary Alice. A bicentennial celebration
, celebrating 200 years of freedom was held in the Hawaiian Gardens with members
wearing their school uniforms or uniforms depicting a phase of their nursing.
Bylaws were revised to correspond with National.
1976-1978
The new incoming President, Mary Griffin, saw her reign of two years as continued
growth and expansion for the association. The winner of the emblem contest and the
$25.00 savings bond was Nancy Moore with Bigelow-Sanford. She donated the savings
bond to the scholarship fund.
Members of the association were asked to consider ideas for a banner and colors for the
emblem.
Those nurses adding “retired” to their names were Elizabeth Carpenter, W.R. Grace and
Melba Wyndham, U. S. Plywood in Orangeburg. In order to be in compliance with National
and Corporate, amendment to the By laws was signed, to change the name to South
Carolina State Association of Occupational Health Nurses. New stationary with the state
and national emblems printed in blue along with the name change was distributed to
officers of the association.
Due to the time involved, it was decided to delete troll call during the Business meeting.
With the increase in vendor participation the scholarships were increased to $250.00 each
to Clemson and to U.S.C. recipients.
Membership continued to increase with 35 new members attending their first meeting in
February1977.
Our state association became one of the most progressive in the country. We afforded our
members quality educational seminars with continuing educational units awarded. We
acquired a new name, established an individual logo and banner, generated new forms,
legalities, and mountains of paperwork. The format of the Newsletter was changed to
commensurate with our growth. Joy Burney, Newsletter Editor resigned to become a full
time mother.
A spiritual, Professional Standards and Educational committees were added to our already
functioning committees.
A third student nurse scholarship was offered with MUSC receiving the honor. Lena Ann
Turnage was the proud recipient. The association now awards 3 scholarships of $250.00
each to Clemson, USC, and MUSC.
At the February meeting in Clemson, the new banner was displayed. It was blue with gold
writing. Nancy Moore with Bigelow-Sanford assisted in designing and procuring the
banner.
Mary Griffin became a member of the Board of Directors of the American Association of
Occupational Health Nurses.
1978-1980
The Newsletter obtained a new editor, Susan Cherry with Abney Mill.
Mickey Farrington and Shirley Irvin wrote their certification examinations in April. They
anxiously awaited their notification to add COHN to their names.
Along with the new name, emblem, stationary and banner, pins were introduced at the
February meeting for members to purchase. They had the SCSAOHN emblem and sold for
$11.50.
Patricia Scarborough with MaCalloy Corp., in Charleston wrote a program on High Blood
Pressure and presented this program to the Fifth Southeastern High Blood Pressure
Control Conference in Orlando, Florida. This program was published in 1980 by the
National High Blood Pressure Education Program in Washington and was available to the
public.
In May, 1980, the Newsletter received a new editor. Eva Taylor with J.P. Stevens took on
the task.
Registration for attending the SCSAOHN meetings was $40.00 for members and $50.00 for
non-members.
Taking the certification examination and adding COHN by their name was Mena Corn, Judy
Jackson, Eileen Hallman, Bert Schinzing and Mildred Bunch.
Bringing recognition to the State and our Association was Mary Griffin, nurse with G.E.
Plant. She was elected 2nd Vice President of AAOHN at he National meeting in Atlanta.
Pat Scarborough was the proud winner of the Schering Award.
Wanting to preserve the records and history of the association, Diane Besser coordinated
with Winthrop College, the association placing their records in the archives for preservation.
The records will be available for review.
Again , we lost a newsletter editor. Eva Taylor moved to Japan and handed over the pen
and responsibilities to Pat Hanner with Lucas, CAV. A special questionnaire was
formulated and biographical sketch of members wishing to contribute their services to the
association was enacted.
Hariett Long with Southern Bell began tooting her horn as she took home the Schering
Award.
Barabra Panhorst with M. Lowenstein was invited to join a Clinical exchange tour of the
Soviet Union. She was allowed to take the exchange program as a credit toward her
master’s degree. Barbara felt as if she had her cake and could eat it, too. She
experienced a unique opportunity, one in which all of us would like to experience.
1982
1982 was an exciting year for the association as one of it’s own returned home. Matilda
Babbitz, a former member of SCSAOHN and the current Executive Director of AAOHN,
participated in the February meeting. Matilda was instrumental in moving the headquarters
of AAOHN from New York to Dallas, Texas.
Sible Chaney with Milliken joined the ranks of retirees. She contributed much to the
association during her membership.
Julia Uldrick with Mayfair Mills proudly displayed her plaque indicating her as the 1982
Schering Award winner.
1982-1984
The 1983 Schering award was presented to Pat Howard of J.P. Stevens. She also, served
as Director of ABOHN.
The proud winner of the 1984 Schering award was Jan Reeves with the S.C. Highway
Department.
At the annual meeting it was decided to divide the state into three regions for the purpose
of electing Directors. There would be two directors from each region giving better
representation from over the state. The divisions were: Upper State, (Piedmont Region)
Anderson, Oconee, Pickens, Greenville, Spartanburg, Cherokee, Union, Laurens,
McCormick, Edgefield, Abbeville, Saluda, Greenwood, and Newberry. Middle state
(Midlands Region) Kershaw, Lee, Sumter, Clarendon, York, Chester, Lancaster, Bamberg
Fairfield, Richland, and Lexington. Lower State (Costal Pee Dee) Charleston, Dorchester,
Berkley, Beauford, Colleton, Jasper, Hampton, Georgetown, Williamsburg, Horry, Marion,
Dillon, Marlboro, Chesterfield, Darlington, and Florence.
We missed some familiar faces in our organization as Mary Cribbs with Riegel Textiles,
Maisie Mims with Sonoco Products, Aileen Mancini with Westinghouse NFD, Lib Little, with
Platt Saco Lowell, all retired. They totaled a combination of 77 years in industry.
1984-1986
Kathryn Gray with Greenwood Mills retires form nursing, but not form traveling. Her plans
are to continue conducting tours whcich she has been doing for the poast four years.
Joining her in hanging up their caps were, Mildred Knight with Greenwood Mills, Helen
Hanks with Bigelow Sanford, and Elizabeth Shealy with Arrow Automotives. All will be
missed by the association.
In 1985 the SCSAOHN scholarship assistance for members was established.
South Carolina State Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Inc,
Criteria for Scholarship Assistance for SCSAOHN Members
The following criteria has been established whereby interested members of
the South Carolina State Association of Occupational Health Nurses may
apply for scholarship assistance:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Minimum-graduate of Associate Degree or Diploma Program
Minimum grade of “C” on all academic course work to be transferred.
Registered professional nurse with active license in South Carolina
Employed in O.H.N. in the state of South Carolina.
Certified as COHN or an attending member of the Association for five years or
preparing for certification on the next scheduled examination.
6. Three letters of recommendation by occupational health nursing peers and one from
most recent employer reflecting professional practice.
7. Approval by SCSAOHN, Board of Directors and the Scholarship Committee at the
Board meeting preceding the semester for which scholarship assistance is being
requested.
8. Scholarship award will be determined after criteria have been met and the
following conditions completed:
a. interested members will express their interest in the Scholarship
Awards by writing to the Scholarship Chairman by January 20 of
the year designating the accredited schools choice and courses pursued.
b. If unable to continue commitment, individual will be obliged to notify the
President immediately.
c. Reimbursement will be made upon completion of each course with a grade
of “C” or better and must be accompanied by receipt of bills from the
school’s business office showing the amount paid for tuition and from the
bookstore showing itemized books by name for the course. The amount not
to exceed $1000.00 per year. In the case of other reimbursement only the
difference between other assistance and actual cost will be considered.
Mary Griffin was recognized as the Schering Award winner for her outstanding service to
occupational health through exceptional performance of professional responsibilities in all
facets of this nursing specialty.
Other nurses receiving recognition for their contributions to society was Lila Taylor with
Beattie Plant. The American Red Cross honored her with the highest merit award for
sustaining the life of a co-worker. This is the highest award given by the Red Cross.
Bert Schinzing with Michelin Tire was voted “Volunteer of the Year” for Greenville County
for her tremendous work as chairperson for Camp Opportunity. Combining this with her
nursing responsibilities was a big job.
1986-1988
During her reign as President, Doris Lister saw many new and exciting events take place.
There were amendments to the Bylaws and returning to three meetings a year, February
May, and September. The May meeting is to be the annual meeting. These meetings are
a combination business and educational sessions. They are geared to meet the
educational needs of nurse engaged in the field of occupational health to prepare them to
promote health and safety of the worker n S. C.
Mena Corn with Cryovac was presented the 1986 Schering Award for her numerous
contributions to the association.
Doris Lister presented the association with a brass inscribed gavel for use in conducting
associational meetings.
Barbara Panhorst with Springs Industries, pursuing a Ph.D in nursing was the first member
awarded SCSAOHN scholarship assistance of $1000.00.
SCSAOHN was recognized by National with the Regional Award for the best program.
Due to inactivity, the Advisory Council to SCSAOHN was deleted.
AAOHN again was on the move, this time moving their headquarters from Dallas, Texas to
Atlanta, Georga.
To encourage new members of the association to participate in the meetings, registration
fee for first time attendees was waived.
In order for the nurses who were not able to attend the meetings, but to have a review of
the meeting, it was decided the Newsletter would be printed after the meeting.
Recognition for Life Saving were Jean Stenhouse with Wangner System and Claudia Major
with Steel Heedle. The American Red Cross presented them a certificate of merit for
saving a life trough CPR.
Doris Lister was recognized as the 1987 Schering Award winner.
Evelyn Woodward with Startex Mills said goodbye to nursing. She was one of our pioneer
nurses in industry. She served 2 terms as President, and was on the board of AAIN. She
held numerous other offices in order for the association to stay organized. She will be
greatly missed.
The offices of first and second Vice Presidents combined under the title Vice-President.
1993
This was a banner year with many accomplishments. It was the 50 th anniversary of
SCSAOHN. Our half-century was celebrated at our May meeting in Greenville. Nineteen
retirees attended the luncheon on Thursday. Each received a corsage, directory and
SCSAOHN pad and pencil. Shirley Irvin distributed the historical data she had compiled
spanning the 50 years of the association, 1943-1993.
The membership stood at 230 at the beginning of the year. SCSAOHN received an
invitation to the 90th birthday celebration for Strom Thurmond, South Carolina’s senior
senator. A contribution of $100.00 was sent to the Strom Thurmond Education Fund from
SCSAOHN. It was our first such invitation implying that we are becoming as a more visible
group with the state. It was felt that a contribution would help make us even more visible.
Scholarship recipients were Crystal Dawn Easler of Clemson, Mary Gail Daniels of USC
and Delores Kelly of MUSC. Each received a $1,000.00 scholarship.
The OHN brochure entitled “Occupational Health Nursing – A new Century of Promoting
Worker Health” and written by June Bryson went into its first printing. Members were given
copies to distribute to companies, schools of nursing, potential new members, etc. in an
effort to introduce more people to the services of occupational health nurses.
Molly Price was the first recipient of the Medique Unique Leadership award. Other award
recipients were June Bryson for the Cleo Everhardt Outstanding Nurse and Jeannie Hanna
for Edwards Medical Supply Nurse of the Year award.
The Salary Survey was completed by Karen Alex, giving the association more insight into
our membership. 231 surveys were mailed and 168 replied. There were wide ranges
showing
 4% had salaries of $19,000.00 and below,
 2% showed $55,000.00 - $59,999.00
 34% fell into the range of $30,000.00 - $34,999.00.
Education levels showed
 diploma graduates made up 53%
 Associate Degree graduates 24%
 BSN or higher 23%.
The survey showed that
 27% were COHNs and
 1% were nurse practitioners.
Years of practice were varied also showing
 19% had 5 years or less
 2% had 31 – 35 years of service
 22% had 6 – 10 years
 22% had 11 – 15 years
 18% had 16 – 20 years.
Retirees were Frances Shappard Hair, 1979-1993; Nancy Lee, 1983-1993; Roxie Stewart,
1974-1993; and Bernice Shupe, 1967-1993.
1994-96
As SCSAOHN began their second half-century as an organization, we continued to
progress. Jeannie Hanna was elected president, but resigned shortly afterward when she
accepted a new job out of state. Millie Kingsbury, first vice-president, assumed the role of
president for the next term (1994-1996).
In February of 1994 Joyce Bolen and Janet Gibson, co-editors for the newsletter,
announced a contest for naming the newsletter. In May the new name was announced as
SCSAOHN – Vital Connections. Mary Foley was the winner and she received free
registration for the October meeting.
The brochure promoting OHNs was updated and re-printed.
Three of our members; Jeannie Hanna, Judy Jackson and Nancy Bradley were asked to
serve on a task force committee at MUSC to look at the possibility of developing a OHN
Practitioner program at the graduate level.
Registration fees for meetings were increased to $85.00 beginning with the October 1994
meeting. The October meeting would be our first joint conference with NC OHNs. It was
held in Myrtle Beach and was a great success.
By-Laws were revised to correspond with National in 1994.
In February 1995 membership reached an all time high of 251. We received recognition
from National for reaching “Bronze Level” which is an increase of 1-5% in membership.
Betsy Hossenlopp, membership chairperson, and her committee worked long and hard to
achieve this honor.
Janet Gibson announced a new format for the newsletter to be published in February, May
and September.
SCSAOHN received the 1995 Constituent Education Award for the best program, “Salt and
Savvy – Let’s Do It Together” (SC and NC joint conference). We were recognized at the
1995 AAOHN National Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The May meeting was held in Greenville. The Mayor of Greenville proclaimed May 25,
1995 as “Occupational Health Nurse’s Day in Greenville”.
Following the official board meeting in May the Board met with two representatives from the
State Board of Nursing for SC. This meeting was to look at the Nurse Practice Act from the
standpoint of futuristic trends for utilization of nurses. After data gathering from various
groups they will forward the completed report of findings to the Board. SCSAOHN was
proud to be chosen as one of the groups to provide input.
Regional breakout meetings began in the mid-nineties. After each business meeting time
was allotted for regions to meet with their directors in order to get to know one another and
to pass on information of local happenings.
A new CD account was opened solely for use for scholarships. Only vendors fees will be
added to this account.
It was decided we would no longer employ an accountant. It was also decided to purchase
a computer and printer to be used by the Treasurer in order to improve record keeping and
reporting.
Three $1,000.00 scholarships continued to be given annually to USC, MUSC, and Clemson
nursing students.
Retirees were Janet Mixon, Florence Martin, Helen Eanes and Elizabeth Schultz. Mary
Ann Stewart was undecided.)
1996-98
Millie Kingsbury continued at the helm as president for another term. Changes
continued to take place. In 1996 the membership voted to make a change in the
scholarship program making more available to our members. Criteria was set up for
scholarships to be given to members for state and national meetings. It was decided to
decrease the college scholarship to USC, MUSC and Clemson to $500.00 each leaving
more funds available for members. It was felt this benefit would help attract new members
and improve attendance at meetings since many companies were no longer paying for
attendance to meetings.
In another attempt to increase attendance at meetings, it was decided to change the way
that CEUs were given by distributing at the end of each day instead of at the end of the
meeting. Participants could now choose to attend only one day of the conference and
receive CEUs for that day only. Charge for one day attendance would be $50.00 for
members and $60.00 for non-members. Fee for full conference attendance would remain
the same at $85.00 for members and $95.00 for non-members. CEUs would be distributed
at the end of each day attended.
This was the last year the $1,000.00 scholarships were given to USC, MUSC, and
Clemson. A letter was sent to all three universities informing them of the decrease in
scholarships to $500.00.
In 1997 the first scholarship for a member to a national meeting was awarded to Kay
Burgess to the conference in Orlando, Florida. Karen Alex received the first scholarship for
a state meeting in September in Hilton Head.
State meetings were changed to twice a year, one in the Spring (March or April) and one in
the Fall (September or October). It was felt that more people would be able to attend two
meetings instead of three because of cutbacks in industry and difficulty getting off work for
meetings.
The SCSAOHN membership directory now included the By-Laws as well as criteria and
applications for member scholarships and awards.
Retirees are Nell B. Haggert, Pegge Hill and Mary Griffin.
1998-2000
Another busy year was evident in 1998. Janet Gibson assumed the office of president
and would be our leader for the next two terms.
Joyce Bolen resigned her position as newsletter editor after having served since 1984.
This is the longest anyone has held this position and she did a terrific job. She and Janet
Gibson were co-editors since 1994. Chris Horm now assumes the responsibility of editor of
the newsletter. Joyce will still have a hand as assistant editor and photographer.
The first meeting of 1998 was held in Columbia in March and proved to be a success with
96 registered for the Thursday session and 89 for Friday. This was the first time CEUs
were given separately since the vote to change last year. SC Governor David Beasley
gave the welcoming address for us on Thursday.
It was decided to give all the awards at the fall meeting since we’ll only be meeting twice a
year now.
Pat Plexico, Director Piedmont region and Communications Chairperson, wrote a letter to
the State Board of Nursing requesting that Occupational Health be included in work area as
well as a specialty area on the license renewal form. This has long been a contention with
OHNs who have to mark “other” in these categories when renewing our license. Her effort
would achieve results in the future when these categories were added.
Janet Gibson announced that establishing a web site is one of her goals. She will be
looking into this possibility.
Our members are taking advantage of the state and national meeting scholarships. Peggy
McKechnie received a scholarship for the March meeting in Columbia and Linda Meeks will
receive the scholarship to attend the National Meeting in 1998.
The newsletter expanded to include the minutes of the Business meeting to be mailed after
each conference.
The new AAOHN By-Laws were incorporated into ours.
Teresa Sparks, Recording Secretary, sewed a quilt square to be sent to Bonnie Rogers of
AAOHN for placement in the National wall hanging quilt. It was a lovely white square with
the shape of the state in palmetto blue with SCSAOHN embroidered in white. It should
stand out well and be instantly recognizable on the quilt.
At the 1999 transitional meeting in May the Board visited the state capital and was
introduced to the Senate and House of Representatives, both in session at the time.
Pat Ryan-Kissam received the scholarship to the National meeting in 1999.
Pat Plexico, Communications Chairperson, had very nice notes printed and sent to each
member and their managers on National Nurses’ Day. This was a first such endeavor and
was much appreciated.
Another first for SCSAOHN was our October meeting in 1999. This was held in Greenville
and was a joint meeting with the Occupational Physicians. This a successful meeting and
one we may want to repeat in the future. Sharing with the occupational physicians proved
to be very beneficial educationally, but we later learned we lost money on that particular
conference.
Retirees were Eileen Hallman and Kay Burgess.
2000-02
Janet Gibson continued at the helm as president for another term as we marched into
The twenty-first century. Keeping in step with progress, the president and treasurer were
issued credit cards for necessary purchases and for use when attending conferences out of
state. The use of credit cards for registration became operative as well.
Registration fees were increased again. This time it was $135.00 for members and $150.00
for non-members. State dues were increased to $30.00 annually.
Tammi McKenna received a scholarship for the national meeting and Mae Frances Sarrett
accepted an educational scholarship to attend Gardner Webb as she seeks a degree.
It was voted to begin offering ads in the newsletter for $50.00 each
Janet Gibson continued her efforts in establishing a web site.
There were several retirees; Faye Baker, Lettie Smith, Judy Vaughn, JoGossett, Millie
Kingsbury and Karen Greenwood.
In 2001 a CPA was hired to audit the bank statements and assist Linda Meeks, treasurer,
in achieving tax-exempt status for the organization.
Gloria Tunstall received a scholarship to the national meeting.
It was voted to allow students and retirees to attend state meetings for a fee of $25.00 (no
CEUs to be given).
2002-04
Pat Plexico was elected president and we were excited to see where her leadership
would carry us. Pat instituted many “firsts” during her term in office. A mission statement
was written and printed to read as follows: “The South Carolina State Association of
Occupational Health Nurses, Inc., a chapter of the AAOHN, seeks to enhance the
knowledge and expertise of the occupational and environmental health nurses through
programs designed to develop nursing skills, personal growth, community involvement, and
professional responsibility in caring for the health and safety of the state work force.”
Our vision statement was also written and printed to read, “The SCSAOHN, Inc. is
recognized state wide and nationally as the authority in promoting the health of the
work force, providing education and support for members, and for involvement in the
community”.
Phyllis Hames became newsletter editor and Joyce Bolen stepped down completely
from this duty.
Pat Plexico presented her first “pat on the back” award at the October meeting in
Spartanburg. This is recognizing three members of the board for “a job well done”. The first
proud (and shocked) recipients were Gerri Hood, Nancy Allen and Linda Meeks. They
were each presented a silver charm to add to the charm bracelets given as gifts to each
attendee at the meeting.
The membership fell to 155 in May of 2003 despite efforts to retain and recruit members.
This is most likely due to nurses leaving industry because of plant closings and lay offs, as
well as, companies no longer paying annual dues for the association.
The Board accepted a web page that was created for this association. The site will be
accessible directly or through a link on the AAOHN web site and will be known as
www.scsaohn.org.
Linda Turner received a scholarship for the October meeting.
Retirees are Susan Negri, Linda Turner, Faye Jennings, Patricia Rice, Shirley Johnson,
and Vera Israel.
In 2003 the Board voted to make all past presidents (who served a full term) honorary
members who would not pay any state dues. Letters acknowledging this were sent to Mary
Griffin (1976-1978), Barbara Panhorst-Lassiter (1984-1986), Molly Price(1989-1994), Millie
Kingsbury (1994-1998) and Janet Gibson (1998-2002). Doris Lister (1986-1988) had
already been granted honorary membership.
Policies and procedures were put on computer discs for better record keeping and easier
access to change.
Vendor fees were decreased to $150.00 per booth due to budget constraints and in an
effort to attract more vendors.
Tracking sheets were developed for the Board to try to follow through with ideas and goals
from one meeting to the next.
Carolyn Karpick was awarded a scholarship to the national meeting in Atlanta, GA.
The state meeting scholarships were awarded to Linda Meeks Haslett and Sandra Keller.
An e-mail list was established per region. The director of each region will e-mail members
in their regions when information needs to be transmitted.
It was decided at the October meeting in 1993 to donate $1000.00 to the American Cancer
Society to be designated for breast cancer research since this is Breast Cancer Awareness
Month. Each attendee was given a pink ribbon to wear as a reminder of breast cancer
awareness. The donation was given in honor of those members who are breast cancer
survivors and in memory of those who have been lost through this disease.
2004
After 60 years as an organization, the SCSAOHN, Inc. is still “going strong” and we
look forward to many more years of service, not only to our state work force, but to
our fellowman in general and to each other.
This year the question was raised again as to whether it is within the role and scope of
practice for the licensed registered nurse (RN) to perform OSHA Respiratory evaluation
questionnaire and approve Respirator use. Phyllis, Nancy Allen, Barbara Coady and
Marilyn Hall went before the South Carolina Board of Nursing on behalf of the SCSAOHN,
Inc. to present our case. The following is the answer:
“The Board of Nursing has determined that it is within the role and scope of the
practice of the licensed registered nurse (RN) to conduct the OSHA’s mandatory
questionnaire related to respirator use. The Board of Nursing supports the OSHA
standard that the RN can complete the questionnaire and approve respirator use.
Approval of a respirator is based upon negative responses to all questions on the
OSHA questionnaire. If there is an initial positive response on the questionnaire, the
RN will refer the employee to a licensed physician or advanced practice registered
nurse (APRN). On subsequent evaluations, the RN will refer the employee to a
licensed physician or APRN if there is not sufficient information to reach the
necessary judgment of the employee ability to safely use a respirator without
limitations. The LPN cannot conduct the OSHA’s mandatory questionnaire related to
the respirator use.
The Board recommends the employer verify competency in the performance of this
skill.
This statement is an advisory opinion of the Board of Nursing as to what constitutes
competent and safe nursing practice.”
2006
Barbara Coady was elected to the presidency. Membership was 125. George Wright has
taken over the responsibility of webmaster. He has created a user friendly site with good
information. We have begun to eliminate all mailings. The newsletter will now be
disseminated in an e-mail attachment. All regional directors will pass along association
information using the e-mail tree. George was then elected to the position of treasurer. He
updated all of our accounts, had them audited by a CPA, and computerized the reports. We
have a checking balance of about $15,000 and a money market account of about $24,000.
The bylaws were rewritten to mirror those of AAOHN. We now have the president-elect
position rather than VP. The position of 2nd VP will be eliminated at the expiration of the
current term.
2007
At the fall conference Trena Williams decided to look into sponsorship levels for vendors.
We were able to bring in $2000 from vendors at this level. The association decided to join
the Chamber of Commerce to attempt to increase our visibility in the community. Claudia
Major worked on publishing a new pamphlet to give industry an overview of the role of the
OHN. Debra Burton was elected to the President elect position. The association purchased
video equipment in an attempt to save money. Hotel fees for rental of video and computer
equipment is very expensive. The association purchased a new laptop, LCD monitor,
speakers, and microphone. The laptop will remain with the treasurer. The old laptop will be
kept by the recording secretary.
2008
Eileen Rogers, as Piedmont Director, will begin putting policy and procedure manuals in a
digital form. Updating these manuals will now be the duty of this director. Debra Burton
resigned as President elect. Trena Williams was chosen to fill this position. It was decided
that the role of education coordinator will be placed with the president elect.
2009
The state board of nursing again brought the respiratory issue up for review. Barbara
Coady and Linda Haslett met with a board member in an attempt to make them understand
that review of the OSHA questionnaire is not the only requirement for medical release.
SCSAOHN PAST PRESIDENTS
MARY MILLS
MARGARET YOUNG
EVELYN WOODWARD
GLORIA CANN
ETHEL STAFFORD
MARY GRIFFIN
JUDY JACKSON
PAT HOWARD
BERT SCHINZING
BARBARA PANHORST
DORIS LISTER
MENA CORN
MOLLY PRICE
MILLIE KINGSBURY
JANET GIBSON
PAT PLEXICO
LINDA HASLETT
BARBARA COADY
1943
1961
1962 -1964
1972–1974
1974–1976
1976–1978
1978–1980
1980–1982
1982–1984
1984–1986
1986–1988
1988–1989
1989–1994
1994–1998
1998–2002
2002-2004
2004-2006
2006-2009
Award Winners/Schering Award Winners
1975
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
Judy Coker
Scarborough
Hariett Long
Julia Uldrick
Pat Howard
Jan Reeves
Mary Griffin
Mena Corn
Doris Lister
Bert Schinzing
Pegge Hill
Molly Price
Nurse Of the Year Award –Edwards Medical
1991 Eileen Hallman
1992 Joyce Bolen
1993 Jeannie Hanna
1994 Gerri Hood
1995 Yvonne Martin
1996 Phyllis Hames
1997 Mary Owens
1998 Juanita McGaha
1999 Vera Israel
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
Dorothy Clary
Barbara McGee
Marilyn Hall
Karen Alex
Barbara Coady
Frieda Price
Eileen Rogers
Claudia Majors
Bambi Bailey
Cleo Everhardt/Outstanding Occupational Health Nurse
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
Doris Lister
Eileen Hallman
Frances “Mickey” Farringron
Bernice Shupe
Millie Kingsbury
June Bryson
Mary Griffin
Pat Rice
Dortha Hollis
Pat Plexico
Teresa Sparks
Sandra Keller
Karen Rabon
Gloria Ann Shore
Tammy McKenna
Judith Marriott
Mena Corn Memorial Award
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
Joyce Bolen
Henrietta Kollitz
Mary Nell Kreps
Emily Keels
Karen Harris
Janet Gibson
Nancy Allen
Lila Taylor
Marilyn Hall
Chris Horm
Jane Lucas
Barbara Coady
Medique Unique Leadership Award
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
Mollie Price
Janet Gibson
Letty Smith
Helen Casper
Betsy Hossenlopp
Pat Ryan-Kissam
Barbara McGee
Eileen Rogers
Linda Turner
Mae Frances Sarratt
Pat Plexico
Frieda Price
Debra Burton
Theresa Hardwick
George Wright
Claudia Major
Pat’s Pat on the Back Awards
Awards began in 2002 and 3 winners are selected from Board Members who contributed
the most to the board or to the association during the past few months. These are given at
the spring and fall conference and may either be selected by vote of the Board or by
selection by the President. Winners are presented a sterling charm for bracelet and a
certificate.
October 2002
Winners
April 2003
Winners
Linda Meeks Haslett
Nancy Allen
Gerri Hood
October 2003
Winners
Nancy Allen
Janice Brown
Karen Alex
April 2004
Winners
Pat Ryan-Kissam
Marilyn Hall
Eileen Rogers
Phyllis Hames
Barbara Coady
Sandra Keller
Meetings
Sites in State
Date
Programs
Spartanburg
Clemson
Feb. 1981
May 1982
Audiology Management for the OHN
Ophthalmology and the OHN
Spartanburg
May 1984
Charleston
Greenville
Columbia
Charleston
Clemson
Greenville
Florence
No Meeting
Columbia
Sept. 1984
Feb. 1985
May 1985
Sept. 1985
Feb. 1986
May 1986
Sept. 1986
Feb. 1987
May 1987
Greenwood
Sept. 1987
Greenville
Spartanburg
Charleston
Columbia
Myrtle Beach
Fort Mill
Clemson
Feb. 1988
May 1988
Sept. 1988
Feb. 1989
May 1989
Sept. 1989
Feb. 1990
Charleston
Greenville
Greenwood
Columbia
Spartanburg
Clemson
Rock Hill
Myrtle Beach
SRS/Aiken
Greenville
Charleston
Columbia
Clemson
Myrtle Beach
May 1990
Sept. 1990
Feb. 1991
May 1991
Sept. 1991
Feb. 1992
May 1992
Sept. 1992
Feb. 1993
May 1993
Sept. 1993
Feb. 1994
May 1994
Oct. 1994
Greenwood
Greenville
Spartanburg
Columbia
Charleston
Aiken
Greenville
Hilton Head
Columbia
Hendersonville
Feb. 1995
May. 1995
Sept. 1995
Feb. 1996
May 1996
Sept.1996
Feb. 1997
Sept.1997
March 1998
Oct. 1998
Myrtle Beach
Greenville
Columbia
Myrtle Beach
Clemson
Feb. 1999
Oct. 1999
March 2000
March 2001
Legal Aspects of Occupational Health Nursing and Nursing
diagnosis
Prevention and Management of Back Pain
Women in the Work Place
Occupational Cancer
Occupational Hand Injuries
Occupational Dermatosis and Pulmonary Allergy
OHN Function and Roles
Pharmacology Update
Employees Assistance Program and Selected Communicable
Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases, Prevention, Early treatment and
Rehabilitation
Ergonomics-Matching the Job and the Worker
Renal Disorders-Update and Review
Health Horizons in the Workplace
Legal Aspects of Occupational Health
Taking Care of the Care Giver
Occupational Health Nursing Certification Review
Abnormal Findings in Physical Assessment to Nursing
Diagnosis
Power Communications for the OHN
Safety Management for Occupational Hazards
The Occupational Health Nurse as Manager
Substance Abuse: An Occupational Hazard
Communication and Influencing Skills
“Wellness is for everybody” All aspects of Wellness
Ergonomics and other Burning Issues
Facial, Eye and Hand Injuries in the Workplace
A Close-up View of Savannah River Site
Management of Occupational Injuries
Regulatory Update and Clinical Practice Guidelines
Lungs at Work
Legal Issues and ethical Concerns
Salt and Savvy-Lets do it together-exploring the Domains of
OHN SC/NC Joint meeting
Physical Assessment
Ergonomics
OSFIA Voluntary Protection Plan, Managed Care, ADA
Violence in the Workplace
Management Topic for nurses
Emergency Care Treatment Update
Workers’ Comp, ADA, FMLA, Hepatitis, Update ‘97
Anchors for Practice —Making Waves in Occupational Health
Legal Issues in OHN Practice
Issues Facing SC Workers’ Comp, TB, Holistic Medicine,Sleep
Apnea, Massage
Put Your Heart in the Work Place
Venture into the New Millennium, Laws, ADA, FMLA. WC
Putting the Pieces Together, Self Care, Toxicology, Safety, Ill
May 2000 Hands Across the Border
Superwoman (Today and Tomorrow)
Charleston
Columbia
Spartanburg
Sept. 2001
March 2002
Octr 2002
Charleston
Columbia
Myrtle Beach
Greenville
Rock Hill
Charleston
April 2003
Oct. 2003
April 2004
Sept 2004
May 2005
Sept 2005
Myrtle Beach
Nov 2006
Columbia
May 2007
Greenville
Nov 2007
Greenville
April 2008
Greenville
Oct 2008
Columbia
May 2009
OSHA Update
Violence in the Work Place & Domestic Violence
Trauma, Brain & Spinal Cord, PTSD, Emergency 02, Eye
Trauma, AED
Legal Issues, WC, OSHA, HIPAA
Occupational Health Potpourri, OSHA, VPP, Immunizations
OSHA Update, Orthopedics,
Influencing Behavior
Honoring SC Occupational Health Nurses
Bridge To Safety Accident investigation, Highway Safety,
Hurricane preparedness
Fall in the Sand – Vision, gloves, respiratory, drug and alcohol,
mold
Spring to health – Pandemic flu, voc rehab, life screening,
colon cancer
Changing Seasons of Occ Health – Ergonomics, Spinal Injury,
WC law changes
A Focus on Wellness - Heart Disease, Respiratory Protection,
Burn Therapy, Violence in the workplace
OHN’s in the 21st Century – Updates CTS, drug testing,
TB in industry, and hepatitis; Humor life:work balance
FREE conference – sleep disorders, OSHA, ADA, FMLA,
and WC updates