Immigrant workers are a rapidly growing segment of the U.S. work force, and these increasing numbers have resulted in a different ethnic mix in the work force than in previous decades. Immigrant workers are not a homogenous group, but are over-represented in low-paying occupations. Their diversity and vulnerability present distinct challenges for occupational health nurses. High-risk occupations in which a large proportion of immigrant workers are hired include agriculture, sweatshops, day laborers, and construction. Initiatives needed to improve the working conditions of this vulnerable population include improved surveillance and research, culturally competent care providers, improved health care access, advocacy, and changes in immigration and health policy.

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Vulnerable Populations vulnerable population total quality management management minority group occupational disease human occupational health nursing comparative study Occupational Diseases United States Humans Occupations occupational accident United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration Minority Groups male occupation female risk factor Risk Factors Review organization and management migration government Emigration and Immigration occupational health Accidents, Occupational policy making