Work - Volume 55, issue 4

Authors: Karen,

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162461

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 725-725, 2016

Authors: Lagosky, Stephanie | Bartlett, Doreen | Shaw, Lynn

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Parents who care for young children with chronic conditions are knowledge users. Their efforts, time, and energy to source, consider and monitor information add to the ‘invisible’ work of parents in making decisions about care, school transitions, and interventions. Little is known or understood about the work of parents as knowledge users. OBJECTIVE: To understand the knowledge use patterns and how these patterns may be monitored in parents caring for their young children with cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: An embedded case study methodology was used. In-depth qualitative interviews and visual mapping were employed to …collect and analyze data based on the experiences of three mothers of young children with CP. RESULTS: Knowledge use in parents caring for their young children with CP is multi-factorial, complex and temporal. Findings resulted in a provisional model elaborating on the ways knowledge is used by parents and how it may be monitored. CONCLUSIONS: The visual mapping of pathways and actions of parents as end users makes the processes of knowledge use more visible and open to be valued as well as appreciated by others. The provisional model has implications for knowledge mobilization as a strategy in childhood rehabilitation and the facilitation of knowledge use in the lives of families with children with chronic health conditions. Show more

Keywords: Cerebral palsy, knowledge translation, caregivers, childhood rehabilitation, knowledge mobilization

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162456

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 727-736, 2016

Authors: Gindi, Shahar | Galili, Giora | Volovic-Shushan, Shani | Adir-Pavis, Shirly

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Combat stress reaction (CR) is a syndrome with a wide range of symptoms including changes in soldiers’ behaviors, emotional and physiological responses, avoidance and a decrease in both personal and military functioning. The short-term goal in treating CR is a speedy return to healthy functioning, whereas the long-term goal is to prevent the development of PTSD. Previous research has indicated that the achievement of this short-term goal affects the achievement of the long-term goal and vice versa. Effective treatment requires intervention by trained professionals proficient in reinforcing personal and functional identity without psychiatric labelling. The present paper presents a therapeutic …model integrating OT in treating CR within a military setting. The model emphasizes the importance of preventing fixation to the role of ‘patient’ and a rapid return to maximal functioning. Based on Kielhofner’s Model of Human Occupation, which aims to promote adaptive and efficient functioning by engaging soldiers in tasks supporting their military identity, empowering functionality, and increasing their perceived competency. The model emphasizes the therapeutic milieu within a military environment. Practical application of this model focuses on interdisciplinary aspects and client-focused application. The paper describes an assessment process for each soldier entering the CR unit and a treatment model integrating OT. Show more

Keywords: PTSD, combat stress reaction, interdisciplinary practice, MOHO

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162453

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 737-745, 2016

Authors: Masci, F. | Tassoni, M. | Bossi, M. | Magenta Biasina, A. | Serrao, G. | Rosecrance, J. | Colosio, C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dairy milking is a demanding work task that has been associated with hand and wrist musculoskeletal disorders. Clinical approaches to identify the early effects of musculoskeletal disorders among dairy parlor workers’ wrist have not been well defined. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this pilot study was to develop a study protocol that would assist in the identification and quantification of hand and wrist disorders among dairy workers that perform tasks in the dairy parlor. Additionally, such a study protocol was needed to perform relatively rapid assessments of the wrist/hand on large samples of dairy workers. METHODS: …Fourteen dairy parlor workers were assessed for i) upper limb symptoms and work history through questionnaire, ii) a physical examination of the upper limb and in particular wrists and iii) wrist ultrasonography. An additional 21 unexposed paired participants (the control group) also participated in the data collection. RESULTS: The study results identified two ultrasound acoustic windows characterized by the highest predictive value for alteration of the wrist’s structure. Study results indicated an impairment of the distal median nerve in structure and mobility and impairment of the distal tendon of the muscle extensor carpi ulnaris that included dislocation and frank damage. CONCLUSIONS: This study identified at least two acoustic windows that should be assessed with ultrasound studies on larger groups and in prospective periodical health surveillance of dairy workers. The study confirmed the wrist was at risk for biomechanical stress among workers conducting milking tasks in the dairy parlors. Show more

Keywords: Milkers, wrists overload, ultrasonography, study protocol

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162462

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 747-756, 2016

Authors: Lahav, Orit | Nolan, Clodagh | Katz, Noomi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Engaging in higher education poses challenges for students facing the multiple demands of work, learning and personal life. Evidence for occupational therapy (OT) practice within learning support centers (LSC) in higher education is lacking. OBJECTIVES: 1) to examine areas of difficulties that students experience based upon age, gender, work and faculty; 2) to validate the Trinity Student Profile (TSP) in Israel. METHODS: The TSP contains 75 items that result in three factors: person, occupation and environment . It is reliable and valid in the Irish sample. It was translated into Hebrew with permission. Participants …in the current study included 150 second-year college students. RESULTS: A significant difference within the person factor for age was found (p  < 0.009). Significant interactions were found for person and occupation factors ranging from (p  < 0.045 to 0.009) within different groups, and none for the environmental factor. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest the importance of the person and occupation components of student concerns in the students’ experience. Further studies with the TSP and other measures in the field of OT should be conducted in different countries. OT within LSC would benefit from further use of the TSP such an instrument. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, learning difficulties, learning support center, students’ concerns

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162444

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 757-764, 2016

Authors: Seyedmehdi, Seyed Mohammad | Rahnama, Nooshin | Yazdanparast, Taraneh | Jamaati, Hamidreza | Attarchi, Mirsaeed | Adimi Naghan, Parisa | Hassani, Somayeh

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Untreated Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) as a common breathing sleep disorder results in impaired work performance. The economic burden of untreated OSAS accounts for billions of dollars per year. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of snoring and the risk of OSAS in healthcare system staff. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was performed on 715 staff of Dr. Masih Daneshvari Hospital in 2012. The Berlin questionnaire was used to identify the prevalence of snoring and the risk of sleep apnea. Additional information, including demographic characteristics, night work, night sleep …less than 4 hours, smoking, underlying disease, and quality of sleep were evaluated as well. The information was analyzed using SPSS 15. RESULTS: 12.6% reported snoring. 6.9% and 93.1% were categorized into the high and low risk groups for OSAS respectively. There was an association between the risk of OSAS and age group (P -value = 0.007), gender (P -value = 0.028), marital status (P -value = 0.008), educational level (P -value = 0.035), chronic disease (P -value = 0.008), night sleep less than 4 hours (P -value = 0.001), difficulty in staying asleep (P -value = 0.000) and waking up too early (P -value = 0.006). Even logistic regression analysis demonstrated the relationship between the risk of OSAS and night sleep less than 4 hours (P -value = 0.019) and difficulty in staying asleep (P -value = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that the risk of OSAS is significant in healthcare system staff. Hope to provide a special screening program for OSAS in a regular occupational examination. Show more

Keywords: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, healthcare center, worker, Berlin questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162460

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 765-772, 2016

Authors: Riddell, Maureen F. | Gallagher, Kaitlin M. | McKinnon, Colin D. | Callaghan, Jack P.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: With the increase of tablet usage in both office and industrial workplaces, it is critical to investigate the influence of tablet usage on spine posture and movement. OBJECTIVE: To quantify spine kinematics while participants interacted with a tablet or desktop computer. METHODS: Fourteen participants volunteered for this study. Marker clusters were fixed onto body regions to analyze cervical and lumbar spine posture and sampled at 32 Hz (Optotrak Certus, NDI, Waterloo, Canada). Participants sat for one hour in total. Cervical and lumbar median angles and range of motion (10th to 90th % ile angles) were …extracted from amplitude probability distribution functions performed on the angle data. RESULTS: Using a sloped desk surface at 15°, compared to a flat desk, influenced cervical flexion (p  = 0.0228). Completing the form fill task resulted in the highest degree of cervical flexion (p  = 0.0008) compared to the other tasks completed with cervical angles between 6.1°–8.5° higher than emailing and reading respectively. An interaction between device and task (p  = 0.0061) was found for relative lumbar median spine angles. CONCLUSIONS: Increased lumbar flexion was recorded when using a computer versus a tablet to complete various tasks. Task influenced both cervical and lumbar spine posture with the highest cervical flexion occurring while completing a simulated data entry task. A work surface slope of 15° decreased cervical spine flexion compared to a horizontal work surface slope. Show more

Keywords: Sloping desk, tablets, sit-stand chairs, posture, task

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162452

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 773-782, 2016

Authors: Sun, Wenjun | Chen, Karen | Terhaar, Abigail | Wiegmann, Douglas A. | Heidrich, Susan M. | Tevaarwerk, Amye J. | Sesto, Mary E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Research has identified barriers and facilitators affecting cancer survivors’ return to work (RTW) following the end of active treatment (surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy). However, few studies have focused on barriers and facilitators that cancer survivors experience while working during active treatment. Strategies used by cancer survivors to solve work-related problems during active treatment are underexplored. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe factors that impact, either positively or negatively, breast cancer survivors’ work activities during active treatment. METHODS: Semi-structured, recorded interviews were conducted with 35 breast cancer survivors who worked …during active treatment. Transcripts of interviews were analyzed using inductive content analysis to identify themes regarding work-related barriers, facilitators and strategies. RESULTS: Barriers identified included symptoms, emotional distress, appearance change, time constraints, work characteristics, unsupportive supervisors and coworkers, family issues and other illness. Facilitators included positive aspects of work, support outside of work, and coworker and supervisor support. Strategies included activities to improve health-related issues and changes to working conditions and tasks. CONCLUSIONS: Breast cancer survivors encounter various barriers during active treatment. Several facilitators and strategies can help survivors maintain productive work activities. Show more

Keywords: Content analysis, technology and tools, accommodation, cancer survivor, working during active treatment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162449

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 783-795, 2016

Authors: Dou, Kai | Nie, Yan-Gang | Wang, Yu-Jie | Liu, Yao-Zhong

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Previous studies have demonstrated that self-control is positively related to life satisfaction, but this association in Chinese employees and its underlying mechanism are less commonly investigated. OBJECTIVE: In this preliminary study the relationships between self-control and life satisfaction and the mediating effect of job satisfaction were tested. METHOD: Participants were 482 full-time employees (188 male, 294 female) from different cities in China. They answered self-report questionnaires online that assessed self-control, job satisfaction, and life satisfaction. Path analyses were conducted and bootstrap technique was used to judge the significance of the mediation. RESULTS: …Self-control was positively related to both job and life satisfaction. More importantly, job satisfaction significantly mediated the association between self-control and life satisfaction. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the size of the mediating effect between intrinsic and extrinsic job satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Results of this preliminary study provide further evidence of the positive association between self-control and life satisfaction. Job satisfaction is found to mediate this relationship. Show more

Keywords: Well-being, self-regulation, mediation, workplace

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162447

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 797-803, 2016

Authors: Lecours, Alexandra | Therriault, Pierre-Yves

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Preventive behavior of workers is a major determinant of occupational health and safety performance of an organization. The measure of this concept is a challenge with French-speaking workers as there is no existing French validated tool. OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this research was to realize a French transcultural validation of the Compliance with Safety Behavior Scale (CSBS). METHOD: Steps of parallel translations, reverse translation and pre-test were conducted before the administration of the CSBS to 195 participants. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted; Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients were calculated for each subscale; and …intra-class correlation coefficients were calculated for each item. RESULTS: Exploratory factor analyses support a three-factor structure explaining 53.44 % of the variance and confirmatory factor analyses validate that the measuring tool reflects three distinct factors, which are 1) compliance with safety rules and procedures, 2) participation and initiatives related to prevention, and 3) concern for social and physical environment. Results demonstrate that internal consistency is satisfying for two subscales (0.80 < α < 0.82) and that eight items are highly reliable (0.71 < r < 0.99, p  < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The French version of the CSBS represents a valid and reliable tool allowing its use both for research and for clinical practice. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health and safety, preventive behavior, psychometrics, questionnaire validation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162445

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 805-815, 2016

Authors: Gyemi, Danielle L. | van Wyk, Paula M. | Statham, Melissa | Casey, Jeff | Andrews, David M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In agricultural field work many tasks have been cited as high priority risk factors for the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs). Although video-based biomechanical approaches have been effective in documenting the physical demands and risks associated with various occupational and non-occupational tasks, to date, this method has yet to be used to document jobs such as crop harvesting in a greenhouse environment. OBJECTIVE: To document and assess the postural characteristics and 3D peak and cumulative low back and shoulder loads associated with greenhouse pepper harvesting using a video-based posture sampling approach. METHODS: Nine …male (28.2 (4.1) years) pepper harvesters from a greenhouse in Southwestern Ontario, Canada were videotaped during a normal shift. 3DMatch was used to document working trunk and shoulder postures, from which 3D peak and cumulative forces and moments were quantified. RESULTS: On average, workers spent the majority of their time in neutral trunk postures (lateral bend: 99.1%; axial twist: 59.9%; flexion: 89.8%). Consistent results were found for the left and right shoulder, with the arms held in a neutral flexion posture 50% of the time or more. Four participants experienced peak L4/L5 compression forces (between 4116.3 N and 5937.0 N) which exceeded the NIOSH Action Limit (3400 N) during the cart pushing/pulling task, but remained below the threshold during picking. Mean cumulative L4/L5 extension and shoulder flexion moments ranged in magnitude from 18.5 Nm to 28.2 Nm, and between 19.4 Nm and 23.2 Nm, respectively, across all tasks. CONCLUSIONS: The postural characteristics and biomechanical loads associated with greenhouse pepper harvesting were quantified with a video-based biomechanical approach. Further investigations of the physical risk factors for low back and shoulder musculoskeletal disorders is warranted in pepper harvesting, given the postures and loads documented in this study. Show more

Keywords: Video-based posture assessment, biomechanical loads, vegetable harvesting, agriculture, work-related musculoskeletal disorders

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162442

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 817-829, 2016

Authors: Lindahl, Marianne | Teljigović, Sanel | Heegaard Jensen, Lars | Hvalsoe, Berit | Juneja, Hemant

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Quality in rehabilitation is important for recovery and return to work for people at working age, who sustain fractures, but there is limited information about what constitutes quality in rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: To identify factors that therapists and patients define as quality in the rehabilitation process for working population after simple or multiple fractures. METHODS: The study is a qualitative study based on grounded theory approach with semi-structured interviews conducted individually or in focus groups. Seven patients with fractures, 15 physiotherapists and eight occupational therapists from hospitals, municipalities and private practice were included in the …study. Grounded theory was used to analyze data and develop a theory about quality in the rehabilitation process. RESULTS: Partnership was identified as the core category with continuity of rehabilitation and patient-centred approach as its dimensions. Themes in the patient-centred approach were Biopsychosocial understanding and Professionalism . The patient’s perceived control enhanced when the therapist addressed the whole situation, especially return to work. Therapist’s individual considerations and patient’s involvement in decisions about the therapeutic methods had the same effect. CONCLUSION: Quality in rehabilitation was enhanced in all its dimensions namely structure, process and outcome when therapists used the patient-centred approach and addressed the patient’s overall situation. Show more

Keywords: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, qualitative research, return to work, occupation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162446

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 831-839, 2016

Authors: Alleblas, Chantal C.J. | Formanoy, Margriet A.G. | Könemann, Reinier | Radder, Celine M. | Huirne, Judith A. | Nieboer, Theodoor E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Gynecologists are exposed to multiple risk factors for developing physical complaints. To enhance the workplace ergonomics in gynecological practice, a more detailed insight about job content and associated demands is necessary to subsequently decrease the exposure to risk factors. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of physical complaints and the presence of ergonomic constraints in Dutch gynecological practice. METHODS: A questionnaire was distributed among the 1200 members of the Dutch Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. It consisted of 52 Dutch questions derived from the validated Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. …RESULTS: A total of 227 respondents completed the questionnaire (response rate 18.9%). Overall, 99.5% of the respondents rated their health status as reasonable or good. However, the twelve-month prevalence of physical complaints in one or more body part was 89.4%. Sustained adverse body postures were particularly reported for performing abdominal, and endoscopic surgery, and for assisting in vaginal surgery. Limited workspace, instruments, and patient size were reported by more than 60% of the respondents as constraints for adopting a neutral body posture during vaginal, endoscopic and abdominal surgery respectively. CONCLUSION: The results emphasize the necessity of enhancing ergonomics in gynecological practice. Better ergonomic circumstances will most likely benefit both the health of the gynecologists as well as the quality of surgical care. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, physical work, health care, workplace ergonomics, work organization

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162451

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 841-848, 2016

Authors: Grooten, Wilhelmus Johannes Andreas | Müller, Mira | Forsman, Mikael | Kjellberg, Katarina | Toomingas, Allan | Björn Olov, Ång | Svartengren, Magnus

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health risk appraisals (HRAs) in occupational health services (OHS) in Sweden are very commonly used for health promotion issues, but not much research has explored the extent and nature of individual feedback that is provided. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to describe and explore HRAs in OHS regarding the content of the feedback in relation to the individual status and overall employee satisfaction. METHODS: Feedback (evaluation and advice) and employee satisfaction with HRA were studied in employees that participated in health risk appraisals with a specific feedback session (HRA-F) (n  = 272) and employees that participated …in a single session (HRA-S) (n  = 104). Associations between feedback and individual status concerning life style were assessed with Cohen’s kappa (k). RESULTS: The employees received mainly information and advice for improvement on health and lifestyle issues (89–100%), while advice for improvement of working conditions was less common (15–59%). The feedback provided on life style was not based on individual status (k  < 0.4), except for smoking and risky alcohol consumption (k  > 0.55). A great majority of employees reported good overall satisfaction with their HRAs. CONCLUSIONS: The evaluation and feedback given to employees after HRAs should be based more on HRA-results and advice could be focused more on work-related factors. Show more

Keywords: Health examinations, occupational health, occupational medicine, public health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162443

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 849-859, 2016

Authors: Ojala, Birgitta | Nygård, Clas-Håkan | Nikkari, Seppo T.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aging of the workforce poses new challenges for maintaining work ability. Because of limited information on the effectiveness of vocational rehabilitation performed in traditional inpatient programs, extended interest in outpatient rehabilitation has risen in the past few years. OBJECTIVE: We examined the effects of a new outpatient rehabilitation program where every participant defined their own goals to improve work ability by the aid of a goal-oriented multi-professional team. This report will focus on the employees’ physical capacity during a nine-month program. METHODS: A total of 605 municipal employees from different production areas of …the City of Tampere took part in the outpatient rehabilitation program, implemented by the occupational health unit. Groups of 12 employees participated in eight one-day sessions at intervals of two to three weeks; the final follow-up was 9 months from the beginning. Submaximal aerobic capacity was tested by a calibrated cycle ergometer with a commercial program (Aino Fitware pro, Helsinki, Finland). Musculoskeletal tests assessed muscle strength, balance and mobility. RESULTS: During the 9-month follow-up of the rehabilitation program, the employees’ physical capacity was improved. The follow-up test scores from a total of 329 employees were significantly higher in the submaximal aerobic capacity test (p  < 0.001). Other tests were also improved, such as standing on one foot (p  = 0.001), back side bending flexibility test (p  < 0.001), dynamic sit up (p  = 0.001), upper extremity right (p  < 0.001), and knee bending (p  = 0.029). About 40% of the participants did not have an adequate health situation to take part in physical capacity tests; however they took part in the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The new outpatient rehabilitation program organized by the occupational health unit had a positive influence on employees’ physical capacity during a nine-month follow up. Show more

Keywords: Health promotion, work ability, cognitive behavioral theory based training (CBTr)

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162458

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 861-871, 2016

Authors: Townsend, Robert | Bell, Shane | Harry, John

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Distraction based material handling tests are used to measure effort during functional capacity evaluations. OBJECTIVE: To identify validity of effort using the under loading method with the XRTS Lever Arm. Classification of effort between the two sessions (100% effort and estimated 50% effort) was compared with current validity criteria. METHODS: Fifty healthy and asymptomatic subjects were tested under two conditions (100% effort and an estimated 50% effort). Comparisons were made between percent changes from crate lifts to lever arm lifts from three starting heights (0.25 m, 0.38 m and 0.051 m). RESULTS: During the 100% …effort sessions, no subject had a mean percent change >20%, a majority of lift comparison >25% or a single lift comparison >30%. The specificity of the current validity criteria is 100%. The under loading method of using the XRTS lever arm was 20% sensitive in identifying an equivocal or invalid test result when subjects gave an estimated 50% effort. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate the under loading method of distraction based testing is very specific but lacks sensitivity in identifying feigned weakness with asymptomatic, non-injured individuals. The high specificity of the test should eliminate concern of having a false positive for insincere effort during functional testing. Show more

Keywords: Functional capacity evaluation, cross-reference testing, percent change

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162450

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 873-882, 2016

Authors: Haraldsson, P. | Jonker, D. | Strengbom, E. | Areskoug-Josefsson, K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Important success factors for the Occupational Health Service (OHS) include services being based on active participation and risk identification from a multidisciplinary/multifactorial perspective. Despite an extensive search, no questionnaire with this approach was found so a new questionnaire was developed at the OHS. The aim of this study was to develop and validate the new questionnaire named Structured Multidisciplinary work Evaluation Tool (SMET) through action research. METHOD: Communicative and pragmatic validity were tested through the development of the questionnaire using action theory and presented in a descriptive portrayal. The Content Validity Index (CVI) was used to …test content validity for each item as well as for the questionnaire as a whole. RESULT: Communicative and pragmatic validity were developed and tested over time in four different periods between 2008 and 2014, in 24 clinics (with a total of approximately 1000 employees) in Region Jönköping County. The content validity of the SMET questionnaire as a whole was close to excellent and the validity of the questions regarding physically and psychosocially demanding work factors were found to be excellent. The questions regarding environmentally demanding work factors were found to have a lower, but still good, validity. CONCLUSION: The SMET questionnaire has very good content validity. The pervasive work with the SMET questionnaire also shows good pragmatic and communicative validity. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health care, work questionnaire, validity, participatory ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162454

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 883-891, 2016

Authors: Sarkar, Sonali | Taylor, Wendell C. | Lai, Dejian | Shegog, Ross | Paxton, Raheem J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Few studies have examined the associations among family, friend, and coworker social support for physical activity. It is important to know the sources of social support that facilitate and promote physical activity among fulltime working adults. OBJECTIVE: We analyzed the associations among family, friend, and coworker social support for physical activity and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity among participants in a worksite study. METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from 144 participants from four worksites in a large, southwestern city in the United States. The intervention for the worksite study was Booster …Breaks (a physical activity routine of 15 minutes) practiced daily to break-up prolonged sitting time. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regressions were conducted using SPSS version 20. RESULTS: Age was inversely associated (p  = 0.001), and social support from friends (p  = 0.04) and coworkers (p  = 0.003) were positively associated with physical activity in the unadjusted model. After controlling for all the covariates (age, sex, marital status, BMI, education, and income) in the model, only coworker social support was positively (p  = 0.027) associated with physical activity among participants in the workplace study. CONCLUSIONS: Coworker social support is an important correlate of physical activity and should be incorporated in workplace health promotion programs. Show more

Keywords: Workplace health promotion, social support, physical activity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162459

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 893-899, 2016

Authors: Hellman, Therese | Bergström, Aileen | Eriksson, Gunilla | Hansen Falkdal, Annie | Johansson, Ulla

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Poor co-operation between the various stakeholders underscores the need for reviewing important factors that facilitate return to work (RTW) after stroke. OBJECTIVE: To explore and describe important aspects expressed by Swedish stakeholders in the RTW process for persons post stroke and to contrast the stakeholders’ aspects exploring different perspectives that may influence optimal RTW. METHODS: Data from seven focus group interviews with the stakeholders were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Three main categories made up the findings; the prolonged RTW process, the need for extended knowledge, and the assessment of work …ability in the RTW process. Despite the stakeholders’ agreement on these important aspects, they presented divergent views of the categories, representing their diverse agendas. CONCLUSIONS: A stroke coordinator may remediate the stakeholders’ divergent perspectives. The coordinator should be versed in stroke specific knowledge and in a person centered approach to inform the decision process regarding RTW, while finding optimal solutions within regulatory boundary conditions. A coordinator could increase collaboration of the various stakeholders, provide support and coordinate services for the client with stroke and the employer throughout the whole process facilitating RTW after stroke. Future studies are needed to confirm this proposal. Show more

Keywords: Work, vocational rehabilitation, occupation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162455

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 901-911, 2016

Authors: Mani, Karthik | Provident, Ingrid | Eckel, Emily

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) related to computer work have become a serious public health concern. Literature revealed a positive association between computer use and WMSDs. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this evidence-based pilot project was to provide a series of evidence-based educational sessions on ergonomics to office computer workers to enhance the awareness of risk factors of WMSDs. METHODS: Seventeen office computer workers who work for the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy volunteered for this project. Each participant completed a baseline and post-intervention ergonomics questionnaire and attended six educational sessions. The Rapid Office …Strain Assessment and an ergonomics questionnaire were used for data collection. RESULTS: The post-intervention data revealed that 89% of participants were able to identify a greater number of risk factors and answer more questions correctly in knowledge tests of the ergonomics questionnaire. Pre- and post-intervention comparisons showed changes in work posture and behaviors (taking rest breaks, participating in exercise, adjusting workstation) of participants. CONCLUSIONS: The findings have implications for injury prevention in office settings and suggest that ergonomics education may yield positive knowledge and behavioral changes among computer workers. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, occupational therapy, prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162457

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 913-922, 2016

Authors: Poole, Janet L. | Anwar, Sahar | Mendelson, Cindy | Allaire, Saralynn

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an auto-immune connective tissue disease characterized by fibrosis of skin, blood vessels, and internal organs that results in significant disability. OBJECTIVE: To identify the work barriers faced by people with systemic sclerosis (SSc) in maintaining employment. METHODS: Thirty-six people with SSc who were working more than 8 hours per week completed the Work Experience Survey, which contains lists of potential work barriers, including the ability to travel to and from work; get around at work; perform essential job functions, including physical, cognitive, and task-related activities; work with others; and manage …work conditions. RESULTS: Thirty-three participants completed and returned the questionnaires, most of whom were female, and working full time and in professional careers. Principal disease symptoms included fatigue, Raynaud’s phenomenon, esophageal involvement, and leg or hand/wrist pain. All participants reported some barriers with a mean of 18 barriers per participant. At least three quarters of participants cited outside temperature (82%), cold temperatures inside the workplace (76%), and household work (76%), as barriers. The next most common barriers were using both hands (64%), arranging and taking part in social activities (64%), being able to provide self-care (61%) and working 8 hours (58%). CONCLUSION: Participants reported a wide range of barriers, from cold temperatures, to physical job, fatigue related, and non-workplace demands, in maintaining the worker role. The barriers reflect the disease symptoms they reported. Identifying workplace barriers facilitates the creation of job accommodations or adaptations that will allow people with SSc to continue working. Show more

Keywords: Employment, disability, rheumatic disease

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162448

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 923-929, 2016

Article Type: Other

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 931-937, 2016

Article Type: Other

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 939-942, 2016