Work - Volume 45, issue 2

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131602

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 139-139, 2013

Authors: Turfaner, Nurver | Köksal, Selçuk | Erginöz, Ethem | Özçelik, Derviş | Sayman, Haluk | Sipahioğlu, Fikret

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to compare the blood lead levels in employed and unemployed women and associate the difference with sociodemographic and reproductive factors. PARTICIPANTS: Out of a 100 women attending the routine check-up unit of Family Medicine Department for screening of osteoporosis and blood lead levels, 63 post-menopausal participants; 36 unemployed and 27 employed, were included in the study. METHODS: Patients completed a questionnaire regarding their sociodemographics. Their …blood chemistry and blood lead levels were determined and bone mineral densities were measured by Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry. In the statistical analysis, Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare means and χ ^{2} was used to compare ratios. Backward logistic regression was used for multivariate analysis. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the age (57.17 ± 7.46; unemployed, 54.19 ± 5.36; employed). The mean blood lead levels were 25.92 ± 9.31 μ g/dl in the unemployed group and 33.98 ± 13.50 μg/dl in the employed group (p=0.011) adjusted for age. Smoking rate was significantly higher in employed women (p=0.033) whereas the number of births (p=0.032) and duration of breastfeeding (p=0.008) were significantly lower. Although both groups were osteoporotic and post-menopausal, there was no association between osteoporosis and employment while unemployed women had an earlier menopause (p=0.037). CONCLUSIONS: Lead levels are above the accepted threshhold (20 μg/dl) in both groups. Strict environmental and social improvement efforts in both groups are recommended. Show more

Keywords: Work, blood lead levels, reproductive factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121525

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 141-146, 2013

Authors: Geiger, Joan S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Healthcare workers are at great risk for musculoskeletal injuries related to ergonomic risk work factors. Patient handling tasks such as transfers and bed positioning pose the highest risk. This report describes the implementation of a physical therapist-driven model of ergonomic intervention in a general hospital in Israel. PARTICIPANTS: A group of senior physical therapists undertook the lead role in implementing an ergonomics program on four hospital wards. METHODS: After participating in an extensive ergonomics training …program, the therapists were guided through the process of risk analysis and program formation tailored to four pilot wards. Four interdisciplinary ergonomic teams were established. The teams will define their ongoing role in coordinating and implementing ergonomics activities in the future. RESULTS: Short-term outcomes include the advancement of ergonomics knowledge and awareness among therapy and nursing staffs, and recognition of therapists' role in healthcare ergonomics, as well as the establishment of four interdisciplinary ergonomics teams. The long-term outcome will be the maintenance of team activities over time, including repeated surveys of staff attitudes and practices, which have been positively correlated with reductions in musculoskeletal injury rates. CONCLUSION: This model of intensive involvement of therapists within multidisciplinary ergonomics programs may serve as a protocol for further projects in healthcare settings. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, ergonomics, healthcare workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121526

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 147-160, 2013

Authors: Kvam, Lisbeth | Eide, Arne Henning | Vik, Kjersti

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to provide knowledge about participation and change in participation among men and women experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain and undergoing multidisciplinary vocational rehabilitation. PARTICIPANTS: Six women and four men participating in a vocational rehabilitation intervention. METHOD: Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews. The participants were encouraged to talk about their experiences and thoughts regarding participation in different life areas using previous, …present, and future expectations. The analysis performed was constant comparative and inspired by grounded theory. RESULTS: The core category was identified as "goal-oriented participation" which represented participation as intentional and situated. Three categories, "participating as before," "participation constantly changing," and "participating in work on hold," were used, taking into account gender-influenced trajectories and understandings of participation before, during, and after sick leave and rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: The different trajectories of participation seemed to be gender specific and were connected to broader societal and environmental factors. These combined aspects seemed to affect values, motivation, and understanding of important goals while experiencing chronic pain. Examining goal-oriented participation may add to the understanding of gender differences in the rehabilitation process and thereby have implications for rehabilitation interventions. Show more

Keywords: Chronic musculoskeletal pain, International Classification of Functioning (ICF), goals, constructivist perspective, multidisciplinary vocational rehabilitation, domains of life

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121534

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 161-174, 2013

Authors: Sjöström, Rita | Asplund, Ragnar | Alricsson, Marie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to perform a 5-year follow-up of a 7-week multidisciplinary rehabilitation program focusing on pain, physical disability, anxiety and depression as well as stress and sick leave and to compare the results from the baseline, a 2-year follow-up and this 5-year follow-up. PARTICIPANTS: Out of 60 participants of the original rehabilitation program 54 were followed-up after 5 years. METHODS: The rehabilitation program was individually adapted and …consisted of physical activity in several forms as well as theoretical and practical education. At baseline (start of study) and 2 and 5 years after completion of the rehabilitation program all participants were evaluated in terms of sick leave, pain rating (Visual Analogue Scale), the Disability Rating Index, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Stress Test. RESULTS: Between the start of the program and the 5-year follow-up pain rating (P< 0.017) and the rate of full-time sick leave (P< 0.0005) decreased. Physical disability, anxiety, depression and stress were maintained from the 2-year follow-up until the 5-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The rehabilitation program seemed to have had an effect on the participant's ability to manage with symptoms long after the end of the rehabilitation program. Most participants had returned to work, and reported less pain. The improvements made in physical disability and mental health prior to the 2-year follow-up were maintained at the 5-year follow-up occasion. Show more

Keywords: Disability, pain, physiotherapy, sick leave

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121551

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 175-182, 2013

Authors: Jung, Hyesun | Lee, Jong-Eun | Kim, Jiyun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify job stress level and to elucidate the factors associated with job stress among female golf caddies as a specific job group in South Korea. PARTICIPANTS: The sample included 228 female caddies from 9 golf resorts in this descriptive cross-sectional study. METHODS: Descriptive analysis and hierarchical regression were conducted to examine significant correlations between variables. RESULTS: The hierarchical regression model for job stress explained 26.8% of …the variance among those with a low monthly income (β =−0.151, p=0.021), an irregular diet (β=0.165, p=0.014), and high daily work hours (β=0.380, p=0.000), showing that these respondents were more likely to report high job stress levels. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study underscore the urgent need to improve job stress levels and factors related to job stress among female golf caddies. Future intervention programs for this job of specific case should focus on improving job stress and coping strategies. Show more

Keywords: Women, worker, distress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121535

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 183-189, 2013

Authors: Ratzon, Navah Z. | Ari (Shevil), Eynat Ben | Froom, Paul | Friedman, Sharon | Amit, Yehuda

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Pelvic injuries following motor vehicle accidents (MVA) cause disability and affect work capabilities. This study evaluated functional, self-report, and medical-based factors that could predict work capacity as was reflected in a functional capacity evaluation (FCE) among persons who sustained a pelvic injury. It was hypothesized that self-reported functional status and bio-demographic variables would predict work capacity. PARTICIPANTS: Sixty-one community-dwelling adults previously hospitalized following a MVA induced pelvic injury. METHODS: FCE for …work performance was conducted using the Physical Work Performance Evaluation (PWPE). Additional data was collected through a demographics questionnaire and the Functional Status Questionnaire. All participants underwent an orthopedic medical examination of the hip and lower extremities. RESULTS: Most participants self-reported that their work capacity post-injury were lower than their job required. PWPE scores indicated below-range functional performance. Regression models predicted 23% to 51% of PWPE subtests. Participants' self-report of functioning (instrumental activities of daily living and work) and bio-demographic variables (gender and age) were better predictors of PWPE scores than factors originating from the medical examination. CONCLUSIONS: Results support the inclusion of FCE, in addition to self-report of functioning and medical examination, to evaluate work capacity among individuals' post-pelvic injury and interventions and discharge planning. Show more

Keywords: Hip, work ability, self-report, orthopedics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121546

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 191-200, 2013

Authors: Vestling, Monika | Ramel, Eva | Iwarsson, Susanne

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to increase the understanding of stroke survivors' thoughts and experiences from returning to work after stroke. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were carried out with twelve persons, based on a thematic interview guide. A qualitative content analysis was performed. RESULTS: The main theme; Striving for optimal function at work creates mixed feelings of appreciation and frustration, contained three categories: 1) Multiple arrangements and strategies are necessary for …returning to work, 2) Work as an activity holds multiple subjective meanings that are important for the motivation to return to work, and 3) The return-to-work process generates many and mixed feelings. CONCLUSIONS: The complexity of the process involving many different actors constitutes great challenges for the affected person in addition to general and medical problems. The stroke survivor should be encouraged to be an active participant during the return-to-work process. Our findings can be used for the development of a programme, including a personal mentor, to support the person striving for returning to work. For detailed planning of such a programme further research is needed. Show more

Keywords: Meaning of work, lack of control, confidence, future work situation, return to work process

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121554

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 201-211, 2013

Authors: Baker, Nancy A. | Livengood, Heather | Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Self-report checklists are used to assess computer workstation set up, typically by workers not trained in ergonomic assessment or checklist interpretation.Though many checklists exist, few have been evaluated for reliability and validity. OBJECTIVE: This study examined reliability and validity of the Computer Workstation Checklist (CWC) to identify mismatches between workers' self-reported workstation problems. METHODS: The CWC was completed at baseline and at 1 month to establish reliability. Validity was determined with …CWC baseline data compared to an onsite workstation evaluation conducted by an expert in computer workstation assessment. RESULTS: Reliability ranged from fair to near perfect (prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa, 0.38–0.93); items with the strongest agreement were related to the input device, monitor, computer table, and document holder. The CWC had greater specificity (11 of 16 items) than sensitivity (3 of 16 items). The positive predictive value was greater than the negative predictive value for all questions. CONCLUSION: The CWC has strong reliability. Sensitivity and specificity suggested workers often indicated no problems with workstation setup when problems existed. The evidence suggests that while the CWC may not be valid when used alone, it may be a suitable adjunct to an ergonomic assessment completed by professionals. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, workplace, psychometrics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131603

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 213-221, 2013

Authors: Roessler, Richard T. | Bishop, Malachy | Rumrill, Phillip D. | Sheppard-Jones, Kathleen | Waletich, Brittany | Umeasiegbu, Veronica | Bishop, Lisa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study evaluated the specialized housing, transportation, and resource needs and barriers of adults with MS. Information pertaining to barriers and barrier removal strategies related to housing and transportation issues for adults with MS was gathered as part of a national survey of a randomly selected and representative sample of 5082 adults with MS, in cooperation with affiliate chapters of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) and the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis …(NARCOMS). This article presents a qualitative analysis of participants' responses to questions addressing: (a) barriers to obtaining specialized housing and adapted transportation for individuals with MS, (b) factors contributing to maintenance of an independent lifestyle, and (c) information and referral resources pertinent to obtaining specialized housing and adapted transportation. The results provide the first assessment of these issues on a national scale and underscore the need for increased access to professional consultation, financial resources, and housing modification information and resources to enable persons with MS to obtain the specialized housing needed to maintain maximal independent lifestyles. Show more

Keywords: Independent lifestyle, chronic illness, home modifications

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1455

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 223-235, 2013

Authors: Rumrill, Jr., Phillip D.

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131630

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 237-240, 2013

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131589

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 241-244, 2013

Authors: Arikawa, Mayumi | Goto, Hideki | Mineno, Kazuhito

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The present report uses two cases to provide an overview of employment support by occupational therapists for people with developmental disabilities and investigates the roles occupational therapists should play and the support they should give. Case A was a man in his 30s with Asperger disorder who used a trial employment program and received on-the-job training, leading to regular employment. Case B was a man in his 40s with intellectual disability who used outreach supported employment …and achieved financial stability through sheltered employment. These two cases suggest that occupational therapists can help people with developmental disabilities acquire stable employment by accelerating their adaptation to the workplace through the following steps: assessing the occupational performance of the individual and the work environment; understanding the characteristics of the job by experiencing the job first-hand; and adjusting or improving the work environment to match the capabilities of the individual. Show more

Keywords: Vocational rehabilitation, work capacity assessment, cooperation with local enterprises

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131590

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 245-251, 2013

Authors: Iwane, Tatsuro | Yoshida, Aya | Kono, Makoto | Hashimoto, Hiroko | Yamamoto, Seiji

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this paper is to review the methods and the activities of occupational therapists (OTs) in the field of work support for persons with mental disabilities in Japan. METHODS: Necessary information is gathered through review of literatures. RESULTS: Japanese OTs are working in myriad locations across a number of areas in the field of mental disabilities, including medical institutions, self-support facilities, public employment security offices, employment and life support …centers for persons with disabilities, public health centers, and vocational rehabilitation centers. Work support has been implemented in each setting, and there is a diverse range of implementations. In discussing work support in Japan, it is important to note that it is still often implemented in a conventional way – that is to say, through a gradual-support methodology, based on the working-readiness model. However, some of the work support initiatives have begun to embrace cutting-edge approaches, such as network-oriented implementation. CONCLUSION: It is necessary for OTs in Japan to implement work support using the most effective means available. Repeating such efforts will drive a paradigm shift facilitating a transition from the outdated working-readiness model, andhelp persons with disabilities to have decent jobs. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, paradigm shift, networking

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131591

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 253-260, 2013

Authors: Matsui, Ryosuke

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This paper intends to review the historical development and related issues involved in the employment of persons with disabilities under the Law on Employment Promotion of Persons with Disabilities in Japan in light of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). METHODS: The actual situations of the special subsidiary company system, which was established by the Law to assist large-sized enterprises in achieving their legally mandated quota, were analyzed, …based on the relevant data and materials published by the government and other sources. CONCLUSIONS: The targeted enterprises could achieve the highest employment rates of persons with disabilities through the establishment of special subsidiary companies. However, various studies on these companies have revealed that more effort is needed to improve the quality of employment of their workers with disabilities in light of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Show more

Keywords: Quality of employment of persons with disabilities, normalization and inclusion, realization of rights to work of persons with disabilities,

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131592

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 261-265, 2013

Authors: Saito, Yoko | Mineo, Mai | Yaeda, Jun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The number of Japanese working age persons who have experienced a stroke is significantly increasing. In such cases work support is an urgent issue. Although an active cooperation between medical institutions and work support agencies is critical, it has been insufficient, due to an absence of key coordinators with sufficient knowledge in both occupational therapy and work support or vocational rehabilitation. The present paper introduced two case studies to illustrate the importance of the cooperation between …medical institutions and work support agencies and discussed reasons why medical institutions have difficulties in supporting persons who have experienced a stroke in their return to work. Show more

Keywords: Higher brain dysfunction, occupational therapy, hospital, pre-vocational support

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131593

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 267-272, 2013

Authors: Watanabe, Shu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To report on functional outcomes of clients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) admitted to a sub-acute rehabilitation hospital and rehabilitation facility in Japan. PARTICIPANTS: The subjects included 300 adults with TBI who underwent a rehabilitation in-patient program at the hospital at the Kanagawa Rehabilitation Center. METHODS: Individual and group programs were designed for TBI clients using an interdisciplinary teamwork model including supported employment. All clients were evaluated by the Barthel Index, …WAIS-R, and social outcome. RESULTS: Overall, at discharge from the hospital, 46.4% of 300 clients were placed in gainful employment or returned to the school they had attended previously. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a high prevalence of cognitive and behavioral disorders after moderate-to-severe TBI, long-term functional improvement is likely to occur in clients with TBI. Greater gains in both physical and cognitive functions are made through a multidisciplinary, wide-ranging, comprehensive approach to rehabilitation. Show more

Keywords: Multidisciplinary comprehensive rehabilitation, supported employment, vocational outcome

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131594

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 273-277, 2013

Authors: Yaeda, Jun | Kundu, Madan | Nishimura, Shuji

Article Type: Other

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to assess the self-perceived knowledge and skills of Japanese job coaches and to examine whether their knowledge and skills differed across employment settings. PARTICIPANTS: The 479 job coaches at Work Support Centers or Work Support Agencies comprised the study population. METHODS: A Japanese version of the 80-item Self-Assessment for Students or Counselors (SASC-J) was mailed to all the Work Support Centers and Agencies. RESULTS: There was no …significant difference on any of the SASC-J 8 subsystems mean scores between Work Support Agencies and Work Support Centers. The highest mean score of these 2 employment settings was the "Placement Personal" (2.30 and 2.31), and the lowest was the "Education" (1.40 and 1.46). The overall mean score of the SASC-J was 1.82 (SD=0.63). A significant relationship was found between the years of experience and the SASC-J (r=0.30, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Since the average below 3.0 on the SASC would mean that "you need to read a textbook on placement and/or a course in Placement", the result of the current study suggested that Japanese job coaches, regardless of the employment settings, need to learn more about the systematic placement technique. Further studies are encouraged to assess the training outcome of the job coach. Show more

Keywords: Supported employment, training, education, systems approach to placement

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131595

Citation: Work, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 279-285, 2013