Work - Volume 36, issue 2

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1013

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 115-117, 2010

Authors: Howe, Caroline | Matthews, Lynda R. | Heard, Robert

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: The specific aim of this study was to explore psychological well-being in workers and retirees and compare responses from people who came from an overseas-born population and those from an Australian born. Participants: Participants were self-selected, voluntary, informed research participants aged 50 years and older. One hundred and ninety-five people born in Australia and retiring in Australia and 91 people born overseas retiring in Australia responded to an internet-based survey that comprised the …Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, the PTSD Checklist, the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Duke Social Support Index. Method: Two-way analysis of variance was conducted for dependent variables against: (1) being born in Australia Yes/No, and (2) Retired/Employed. Results: In terms of adjustment to retirement the findings indicate no significant differences in psychological symptoms during the retirement transition phase between populations. Conclusion: Further research needs to be carried out to consider the role of possible explanatory factors that may contribute to the psychological transition to retirement. Show more

Keywords: Acculturation, retirement transition, wellbeing, Internet research

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1014

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 119-127, 2010

Authors: Innes, Ev | Crowther, Amber | Fonti, Fiona | Quayle, Leonie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective/participants: This report describes a project undertaken by three final (4th) year occupational therapy undergraduate students from the University of Sydney, Australia, in their final fieldwork placement. The project involved women from a Chinese background who worked on market gardens across the Sydney Basin. Its purpose was to identify musculoskeletal risks in the work environment and work practices of a selected group of seven Cantonese-speaking women working on market gardens in the Western Sydney …region. Methods: The approaches used in the project reflected a risk management approach, and involved background research, initial interviews, task analysis, hazard identification, risk assessment, data analysis, identification of key issues, and developing recommendations, in collaboration with participants and consultation with professionals. Results: The key issues identified as contributing factors to musculoskeletal pain and injuries were: (1) work practices (long work hours, repetitive work); (2) biomechanical factors (repetitive and sustained work postures, poor manual handling practices) and limited training; (3) ergonomics of the equipment used; (4) fatigue. Two priority areas for intervention were identified: (1) pain management, and (2) preventative strategies (improving both the work environment and work practices). Conclusions: Recommendations were made in collaboration with the women, and in consultation with health professionals. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal pain, market gardens, injury prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1015

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 129-140, 2010

Authors: Innes, Ev | Walsh, Casey

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: Dairy farming is a physically demanding occupation, however, little is known about the physical demands of dairy farming tasks, other than milking. The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of musculoskeletal discomfort experienced by dairy farmers in relation to their work. Methods/Participants: A total of 433 dairy farmers from two Australian states (NSW and Victoria) were invited to participate in a mail-out survey (21% response rate, N=90), which covered musculoskeletal …discomfort, physical workload, task frequency and muscular recovery time. Results: Farmers perceived that routine tasks performed repetitively caused more musculoskeletal discomfort than heavier tasks performed on a non-routine or seasonal basis. Males were more likely to perform heavier manual handling duties and tasks involving the use of machinery, whereas females performed more routine administration work. Both men and women were exposed to similar physical demands from the performance of a number of commonly reported and strenuous tasks. Reduced income, lack of staffing, deregulation, and insufficient recovery time were key factors identified by farmers to directly or indirectly limit the reduction of musculoskeletal discomfort at work. Conclusion: Dairy farming is a diversified occupation that requires physical demands from both male and female workers. Further research is needed to investigate specific task demands and identify possible risk factors that may contribute to the future development of musculoskeletal disorders. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, agriculture, dairy farming, job demands, survey, physical workload

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1016

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 141-155, 2010

Authors: Innes, Ev | Hardwick, Megan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: Men under 25 years are at high risk of back injuries caused by manual handling. Self reports and functional capacity evaluations are commonly used to determine a worker's lifting capacity, however, amongst uninjured individuals, conflicting views exist regarding how perceived physical functioning matches actual functioning in the absence of fear of pain and/or re-injury. The aim of this study was to compare self-reports and actual lifting performance in a group of healthy young men aged …18–25 years. Method/participants: A correlational prospective design compared perceived lifting capacity, using self-report and the Spinal Function Sort, and actual lifting capacity, using the EPIC Lift Capacity test in 31 subjects. Results: Subjects' self-reported lifting capacity varied more widely than their actual scores, indicating that they were less accurate at predicting their lifting performance using the self-report measure. One third of subjects were able to accurately self-report their lifting performance, approximately one-third underestimated, and the remaining third overestimated their lifting ability. Only two significant relationships were identified between self-reported and actual lifting performance for frequent knuckle-shoulder and floor-shoulder lifts. These correlations were weak and well below the 0.75 level considered necessary to be clinically significant. Conclusions: This study found that self-report measures are not suitable when used in isolation. It is therefore recommended that self-report measures are used in conjunction with functional capacity evaluations to determine lifting capacity. Show more

Keywords: Perceived lifting, self-report measure, lifting assessment, young men

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1017

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 157-166, 2010

Authors: Wales, Coralie | Matthews, Lynda R. | Donelly, Michelle

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In Australia, evidence of an ageing population and a skills shortage are imminent challenges for employers [5,50]. A further concern arises from the work injury and motor accident compensation schemes, where many claims for soft tissue injuries result in permanent impairment depriving the community of otherwise productive workers [85]. In many cases, it is chronic pain that becomes the major barrier to a return to productive work. Objective: This study will review the operation of rehabilitation within Australian …Workers' and Motor Accidents compensation systems in order to identify values and attitudes underpinning the vocational rehabilitation ethos. The models underlying current practice will also be identified. Methods: A comprehensive review of published literature and policy documents was undertaken. Results: We identified a variety of contextual factors that influenced progress back into the workforce for people living with persistent pain. The conceptual models underpinning these factors within rehabilitation systems were explored. They were all driven by a strong focus on early return to work and at the same time the sustainability of rehabilitation as a profitable industry. Conclusions: Implications of these findings on the relationship between the rehabilitation provider and the person in pain are discussed. Rehabilitation professionals are influenced by and in turn influence the context in which chronic pain is experienced. Empirical data about the experiences of vocational rehabilitation professionals in Australian personal injury rehabilitation systems is lacking, yet the implications of the cost of chronic pain to the nation are significant. It is recommended that rehabilitation providers increase their awareness of the perhaps unforeseen traps within the various practice models they might be using on the goal of sustainable return to work for people living with pain. Show more

Keywords: Labour force participation, Cartesian dualism, medical model, biopsychosocial model, workers' compensation, contextual factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1018

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 167-179, 2010

Authors: Erby, Ruth | Heard, Robert | O'Loughlin, Kate

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: To pilot an injury reporting form designed for use in Australian surf lifesaving; the need for such a form is to meet legislative requirements and as an initial step in developing an injury prevention program for volunteer surf lifesavers [4]. Participants: Competitors at the National Surf Life Saving Championships (NSLSC) held at Kurrawa Beach, Queensland, in 1998/1999 who reported to the medical tent over the course of the five-day event. Twenty-five volunteers of …varying experience staffed the medical tent and included one paramedic coordinator, two doctors, three nurses, three physiotherapists and 16 first-aid officers. Method: An injury reporting form was designed using the Australian Sports Injury Data Dictionary [1] and pilot tested at the NSLSC in 1998/1999. The layout and format were based on similar forms used in other sports (eg skiing) with a number of the items altered to be more specific to surf lifesaving competition events. Four strategies were used to assess if the form provided interpretable data: number of forms returned; completeness of data recorded in each section; detailed analysis of difficulties in coding and entering data; detailed feedback from the medical tent personnel about the usability of the form. Results: A total of 433 completed forms were returned and from these both descriptive and injury incidence data were obtained. Medical tent personnel reported the form to be generally usable, though they suggested some changes to it. Conclusions: The injury reporting form was found to be an effective tool to describe injuries and calculate injury incidence. Following minor revisions, a modified form was designed to improve the quality and accuracy of the information obtained; this form has been used nationally since 2001. Show more

Keywords: Surf lifesaving, volunteer workers, risk management, injury surveillance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1019

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 181-192, 2010

Authors: Ranka, Judy L. | Chapparo, Christine J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to review what is known about return to productivity roles for people who have HIV/AIDS and HIV Associated Neurocognitive Disorder (HAND), to highlight gaps in knowledge and practice for assisting people with HAND to engage in productivity roles, to describe an occupational therapy assessment system that overcomes some of the limitations of current research and practice, and to demonstrate the clinical utility of this instrument for use with clients …who have HAND. Participants: The participant in this study is a man with HIV Associated Dementia (HAD), one sub-type of HAND. Methods: The real-world impact of HAD on productivity role participation was assessed using the Perceive, Recall, Plan and Perform (PRPP) System of Task Analysis, an ecological assessment method. Productivity tasks assessed were those associated with this man's desire to become a volunteer grocery shopper. The assessment took place under naturalistic conditions in a grocery store. Results: The participant demonstrated 28.6% mastery of the grocery shopping task. Performance was impacted on primarily by errors of accuracy and timing. Reasons for these errors centered on the participant's difficulties in applying cognitive strategies to perceive, recall, plan and perform the task. Conclusions: The PRPP System of Task Analysis shows promise in being able to identify errors in task mastery and the underlying cognitive strategy application errors that impact on mastery in people with HAND. Show more

Keywords: HIV, activities of daily living, everyday functioning, cognition, neurocognitive impairment, assessment, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1020

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 193-206, 2010

Authors: Bootes, Kylie | Chapparo, Christine

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Work performance research highlights that psychometric cognitive measures and cognitive component information processing measures are strong predictors of success in multitasking work environments [14]. People with a mild to moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) returning to a job requiring multitasking, may have difficulty succeeding despite pre-morbid equivalent cognitive scores. A critical case study is presented to begin to determine what aspects of information processing contribute to difficulties in multitasking work performance, for …people with a TBI. The Perceive Recall Plan and Perform (PRPP) System of Task Analysis: Workplace Interview (i.e. PRPP@WORK) is used with the employer to obtain information processing scores. Results indicate substantial information processing deficits were perceived by the employer for the employee with a TBI. Future larger studies of people with a TBI who return to work that requires multitasking are needed to more clearly indicate: the level of multitasking they perform; what aspects of information processing hinder their work performance; the impact on performance of perceived cognitive load by the person with a TBI and the type and impact of support provided to improve their work performance. Show more

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1021

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 207-216, 2010

Authors: Donelly, Michelle | Given, Fiona

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: It is unclear whether or not open (competitive) employment programs are meeting the needs of the growing numbers of people with a disability seeking professional employment. Objective: To understand and describe the experience of a newly graduated professional (Michael) who was seeking open employment support and to analyze those experiences in relation to principles of effective open employment support. Participant: Michael a recently graduated accountant who also has a physical disability. …Methods: A review of the literature was undertaken to identify recommended principles and practices for the conduct of effective open employment and career development programs. A case study was used to describe Michael's experiences as he sought professional employment. Michael's experiences were analysed in relation to recommended principles and practice. Results: The analysis confirmed that the concerns Michael experienced about the supported employment program compromised the effectiveness of the support he received. Conclusions: Employment services based on models of independent living, disability service standards and remediation are likely to focus on the 'pathology' or performance 'deficits' of the person with a disability. Successful open employment models are more likely to place pre-eminence on the perspective of the person with a disability and effective practices for securing employment. Show more

Keywords: Professional employment, employment services, open employment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1022

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 217-225, 2010

Authors: Donelly, M. | Hillman, A. | Stancliffe, R.J. | Knox, M. | Whitaker, L. | Parmenter, T.R.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Being in paid employment is socially valued, and is linked to health, financial security and time use. Issues arising from a lack of occupational choice and control, and from diminished role partnerships are particularly problematic in the lives of people with an intellectual disability. Informal support networks are shown to influence work opportunities for people without disabilities, but their impact on the work experiences of people with disability has not been thoroughly explored. The experience of …'work' and preparation for work was explored with a group of four people with an intellectual disability (the participants) and the key members of their informal support networks (network members) in New South Wales, Australia. Network members and participants were interviewed and participant observations of work and other activities were undertaken. Data analysis included open, conceptual and thematic coding. Data analysis software assisted in managing the large datasets across multiple team members. The insight and actions of network members created and sustained the employment and support opportunities that effectively matched the needs and interests of the participants. Recommendations for future research are outlined. Show more

Keywords: Intellectual disability, work, social networks, family support

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1023

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 227-237, 2010

Authors: Chapparo, Christine | Shepherd, Belinda

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: This naturalistic study explored the influence of various contextual factors on the decision making of residential care staff (RCS) who worked and lived with clients with brain injury in transitional living environments. The findings reported here arose from the results of a larger study that investigated the multiple contextual, personal, professional and theoretical influences on RCS decision making. Participants: Eleven residential care staff who were employed in brain injury transitional living …units in Sydney, Australia participated. Methods: Qualitative data were derived from interviews, participant observation and reviews of videotaped staff and client interactions with the residential care staff. Results: The RCS identified time and organisational motivators as major influences on daily decision making at work. They described how decisions were made by them about how to prioritise time at work from two personal perspectives, that of 'hospital person' and `house person', adopted relative to contextual influences at the time. Conclusion: Residential care staff who are in close personal contact with clients for long periods of time make decisions about their work that is largely based on their personal notions of running a house'. Further research is required to describe the emergent phenomenon of staff 'house' behaviour. Show more

Keywords: Qualitative research, clinical reasoning, institutional care

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1024

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 239-247, 2010

Authors: Lowe, Susan | Chapparo, Christine

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: Little research has been carried out on the behaviours that lead to children's successful participation in work roles at school. The objective of this study was to identify some of the elements critical to participation of students by listening to the perspectives of teachers and parents of children who have difficulties with school work. The study is part of a larger research project aimed at developing an assessment tool to describe the participation of children …at school with particular reference to students who experience a difficulty with learning. Participants: 50 teachers and 44 parents of children referred to occupational therapy for problems with school work. Methods: A survey approach using an open ended written response questionnaire. Results: The findings indicated that there are core elements of participation in work that are commonly perceived as crucial by teachers and parents. These included common definitions of work participation with the emergence of several themes relative to work roles and meaning, opportunity for inclusion in school work, risk taking and enjoyment as part of work, and thinking processes. Differences between teacher and parent responses related to perceived reasons for a difficulty with participation, activities which require high levels of participation and aspects of participation that are most difficult to change. Conclusion: This study provided descriptive data on which to build further research into children's experiences of work, and highlights the need for occupational therapists to consider perceptions of key stakeholders when assessing children's work ability at school. Show more

Keywords: Participatory work behaviours, school, teacher and parent perspectives

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1025

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 249-256, 2010

Authors: Stoneman, Jackie | Lysaght, Rosemary

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2010-1026

Citation: Work, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 257-259, 2010