Abstract: The author, an occupational health nurse, examines rationale for and effectiveness of the pre-employment assessment, which has become an accepted practice. Reasons for doing assessments include the reduction of risk to the employer from lower accident rates and absenteeism, compliance with legislative requirements and the provision of baseline health measures for general health surveillance. The costs of the screening process, along with the benefits are weighed up, in conjunction with international research in the area. The author found little research on the process in New Zealand. The opportunity for primary health care and health promotion practice as an aspect of this screening is highlighted as an important, though underestimated, benefit. Regular auditing is recommended to ensure that the outcomes of the process meet the criteria required.
