Work - Volume 56, issue 4

Authors: Karen,

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172530

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 497-498, 2017

Authors: Viljoen, Margaretha | Claassen, Nicolaas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cynicism, as a personality trait, has adverse effects on health. The question was asked whether cynical attitudes that develop due to work-related stress correlate with stress levels and whether it has a negative influence on health. OBJECTIVES: To investigate associations of the cynicism subscale scores of the Maslach Burnout Inventory–General Survey (MBI-GS) with levels of stress, anxiety, questionnaire-based physical health and with a number of physiological health risk indicators. METHODS: Cynicism, anxiety, questionnaire-based physical health scores, as well as allostatic load, heart rate variability and C-reactive protein, were assessed in 27 males working between …40 and 80 irregular hours per week. RESULTS: Cynicism scores related to stress levels (r  = 0.411, p  = 0.030). Effects of work-related cynicism on physical health were suggested by negative associations with questionnaire-based scores on physical health (r  = –0.383, p  = 0.044) and heart rate variability indicators (r  = –0.379, p  = 0.047 to r  = –0.496, p  = 0.007), and by positive associations with anxiety levels (r  = 0.408, p  = 0.031), heart rate (r  = 0.449, p  = 0.017), BMI (r  = 0.426, p  = 0.024) allostatic load (r  = 0.360, p  = 0.065) and levels of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (r  = 0.407, p  = 0.035). CONCLUSIONS: Cynicism, as reflected by the MBI-GS, increases with increased stress levels and could contribute to the decline in the health reported for burnout. Show more

Keywords: Cynicism, stress, health, workplace

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172518

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 499-503, 2017

Authors: Twinley, Rebecca

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Woman-to-woman rape and sexual assault globally remains largely unknown and unaddressed. Expectedly, victim/survivors often cope alone, or with limited support, in the traumatic aftermath of their sexual victimisation. Work is one occupation that is impacted upon at this time. OBJECTIVE: The study explored the perceived impacts of woman-to-woman rape and sexual assault, the subsequent experience of disclosure, reaction, and support, and the consequences for victim/survivors’ subjective experience of occupation. METHODS: The study combined a sociological auto/biographical approach with an occupational science perspective. A web-based survey generated initial data, and was also used as a …sampling tool; subsequently, 10 respondents were interviewed face-to-face, in various UK locations. An eleventh respondent shared her story through correspondence. RESULTS: Four key themes emerged: 1) Identity; 2) Emotion; 3) Survival; and 4) Occupation. The latter, occupation, incorporated study and work. CONCLUSIONS: For these victim/survivors, work or education can be experienced as either: disrupted (triggering) or as preservative (maintenance). Their life roles as worker or student were impacted by feelings that they could have performed better and achieved more. Occupational therapists and other relevant service providers could work with sexually victimised people in order to participate more satisfactorily and healthily in the occupation of work. Show more

Keywords: Dark side, occupation, education, trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172529

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 505-517, 2017

Authors: Lexell, E.M. | Langdell, I. | Lexell, J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Neuromuscular diseases (NMD) can affect the ability to be employed and to work, but there is limited knowledge of individuals’ own perspectives of factors that are important for their vocational situation. OBJECTIVE: To explore the vocational situation among people with NMD that are employed, and to describe their experiences of how their disability, personal and environmental factors influence their ability to continue to work. METHODS: Nine participants with different NMD were included. A mixed-methods design was used, and data were collected by means of semi-structured and open-ended interviews, and ratings of aspects supporting or …interfering with their work performance and the ability to continue to work. Data were analyzed with directed content analysis based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, and with descriptive statistics. RESULTS: The participants’ personal characteristics, support from others at work and at home, and a flexible work organization were perceived as important factors facilitating work continuation, whereas physically demanding work assignments and factors in the physical environment were perceived as barriers. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of how personal characteristics as well as support from the work organization, managers and family members can facilitate the ability to work is important for employers, staff within different parts of the health care system, and the social security system. Future research should focus on interventions that are best suited to enhance the vocational situation for individuals with NMD. Show more

Keywords: International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, hereditary sensory and motor neuropathy, muscular dystrophies, work, workplace, work performance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172527

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 519-530, 2017

Authors: Ihlström, Jonas | Kecklund, Göran | Anund, Anna

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Shift work has been associated with poor health, sleep and fatigue problems and low satisfaction with working hours. However, one type of shift working, namely split shifts, have received little attention. OBJECTIVE: This study examined stress, health and psychosocial aspects of split-shift schedules among bus drivers in urban transport. METHODS: A questionnaire was distributed to drivers working more than 70% of full time which 235 drivers in total answered. RESULTS: In general, drivers working split-shift schedules (n  = 146) did not differ from drivers not working such shifts (n  = 83) as regards any …of the outcome variables that were studied. However, when individual perceptions towards split-shift schedules were taken into account, a different picture appeared. Bus drivers who reported problems working split shifts (36%) reported poorer health, higher perceived stress, working hours interfering with social life, lower sleep quality, more persistent fatigue and lower general work satisfaction than those who did not view split shifts as a problem. Moreover, drivers who reported problems with split shifts also perceived lower possibilities to influence working hours, indicating lower work time control. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that split shifts were not associated with increased stress, poorer health and adverse psychosocial work factors for the entire study sample. However, the results showed that individual differences were important and approximately one third of the drivers reported problems with split shifts, which in turn was associated with stress, poor health and negative psychosocial work conditions. More research is needed to understand the individual and organizational determinants of tolerance to split shifts. Show more

Keywords: Working schedules, sleep, work-life balance, work satisfaction, work time control

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172520

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 531-538, 2017

Authors: Boeijinga, Anniek | Hoeken, Hans | Sanders, José

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite various health promotion initiatives, unfavorable figures regarding Dutch truck drivers’ eating behaviors, exercise behaviors, and absenteeism have not improved. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to obtain a better understanding of the low level of effectiveness of current health interventions for Dutch truck drivers by examining to what extent these are tailored to the target group’s particular mindset (focus of content) and health literacy skills (presentation of content). METHODS: The article analyzes 21 health promotion materials for Dutch truck drivers using a two-step approach: (a) an analysis of the materials’ focus, guided by the Health …Action Process Approach; and (b) an argumentation analysis, guided by pragma-dialectics. RESULTS: The corpus analysis revealed: (a) a predominant focus on the motivation phase; and (b) in line with the aim of motivating the target group, a consistent use of pragmatic arguments, which were typically presented in an implicit way. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that existing health promotion materials for Dutch truck drivers are not sufficiently tailored to the target group’s mindset and health literacy skills. Recommendations are offered to develop more tailored/effective health interventions targeting this high-risk, underserved occupational group. Show more

Keywords: Workplace health promotion, health literacy, tailoring, argumentation, corpus analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172503

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 539-549, 2017

Authors: Samaei, Seyed Ehsan | Mostafaee, Maryam | Jafarpoor, Hasanali | Hosseinabadi, Majid Bagheri

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Patient-handling is one of the main tasks of nursing personnel; it imposes compressive and shear forces on nurses’ lower spine. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Low Back Pain (LBP), risk factors in the incidence of such disorders, and patient handling risk assessment among nursing personnel. METHODS: This study was carried out on 243 randomly selected nursing personnel who played a role in handling the patients (58 wards). Patient Transfer Assessment Instrument (PTAI) checklists alongside Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaires (NMQ) were used for data collection. The statistical analyses such as independent t-test …and Chi-Square test were used. RESULTS: Prevalence of LBP among nursing personal was 69.5% in the previous 12 months. Significant correlations were found among age, working hours per week, work experience, BMI, gender and shift-work. Results of PTAI index assessment revealed that more than 90% of subjects were in medium and severe risks of LBP. PTAI index scores were significantly associated with LBP (P  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PTAI index is regarded as an efficient tool for risk level classifications and identification of effective factors on LBP incidence among nursing personnel involved in patient transfer. In this regard and for the aim of ergonomic intervention towards the reduction of LBP incidence among nurses, the modification of improper factors which are identified in PTAI index such as the use of advanced patient handling equipment, increase in work posture guidance and work arrangements, can be mentioned. Show more

Keywords: Patient Transfer Assessment Instrument, risk factor, risk assessment, patient handling

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172526

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 551-561, 2017

Authors: Amodio, Vanessa | Bruch, Heather | Mollayeva, Tatyana | Colantonio, Angela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related traumatic brain injury (wrTBI) is the most significant occupational injury associated with death and disability. Few studies have investigated injury text narratives to inform prevention strategies. OBJECTIVE: To identify factors leading to wrTBI in male and female workers utilizing the Person-Environment-Occupation (P-E-O) framework. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of the medical records of 98 consecutive Ontario workers with a diagnosed wrTBI was performed. Sociodemographic, occupational, injury-related, clinical, and environmental data were collected from medical assessments and insurers’ files. A mixed methods approach was employed to analyse the data. RESULTS: Five occupational …hazard themes emerged from the injury narratives: unexplained person factor, action by co-worker, external environment, safety measures, and equipment malfunction. Male workers were more likely than female workers to experience a wrTBI due to an equipment breakdown or malfunction. Statistically significant sex differences were observed across P-E-O factors. CONCLUSION: Efforts directed at identifying and remedying various injury patterns are necessary for the development of brain injury primary prevention recommendations, to reduce the prevalence of these vastly impactful incidents. Show more

Keywords: Person-Environment-Occupation model, sex differences, workplace safety, prevention, occupation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172525

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 563-570, 2017

Authors: Sinden, Kathryn E. | McGillivary, Taya L. | Chapman, Elizabeth | Fischer, Steven L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In Canada, functional capacity evaluations (FCEs) are commonly administered by several health care professions including kinesiologists. Kinesiologists have been recently regulated as health care professionals in Ontario and we know little about their demographics, the frequency of FCE administration, or the types of FCEs used by this group. OBJECTIVE: The purposes of this study were to identify: 1) the demographic characteristics and FCE education of kinesiology FCE practitioners; 2) the FCE systems most used by these practitioners and 3) the constructs from assessments used to determine functional capacity. METHODS: A survey was distributed to …members of the Canadian Kinesiology Alliance. Descriptive statistics and frequency distributions were calculated from the survey responses (n  = 77). RESULTS: FCE practitioners were represented by kinesiologists (79%) practicing more than 15 years and 1–5 years, who received FCE training from a certification course. ARCON (23%) was the most common FCE system used. Low-level lifting (43%), mid-lift (38%), pulling (38%) and walking (38%) are the most common FCE task components used to assess functional capacity. Although kinesiologists consider multiple factors when making decisions about task component endpoints, biomechanical observations/body mechanics are the primary methods used. CONCLUSIONS: Kinesiologists are conducting FCEs for the primary purpose of preparing return-to-work or workplace accommodation recommendations. Although functional capacity is determined using multiple factors, there is an emphasis on biomechanics and body mechanics. Focusing FCE training and research on these constructs may provide opportunities to further strengthen the reliability and validity of FCE outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Return-to-work, functional capacity assessments, kinesiology, allied health professionals, occupationalrehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172519

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 571-580, 2017

Authors: Allott, Kelly A. | Killackey, Eoin | Sun, Pamela | Brewer, Warrick J. | Velligan, Dawn I.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cognitive Adaptation Training (CAT) uses compensatory strategies and environmental supports to support cognitive impairments and improve functioning. CAT may be useful for addressing vocational recovery in first-episode psychosis (FEP) because cognitive impairments are common and vocational recovery is a key goal of young people with FEP. OBJECTIVE: To describe clinical observations and practice experience when delivering CAT with FEP clients and explore potential benefits via objective outcome measures for improving vocational outcomes. METHODS: In this pilot study, five FEP participants received 9 months of CAT. Participant goals and functional needs and clinical observations were …recorded. Formal measures of functioning, quality of life and motivation were independently administered pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS: Vocational recovery (education, employment) was found to be a primary functional goal of FEP participants. Accordingly, CAT had a strong focus on vocational functioning, including functional domains required for successful work or educational outcomes, such as organization and planning, transportation and activities of daily living. Factors of clinical importance when delivering CAT with the FEP participants included cognitive heterogeneity, family involvement, flexibility in compensatory and environmental supports used, and experience of stigma. Improvements from baseline to post-intervention were observed on most measures, with the largest improvements seen in global functioning (including vocation), planning and organization, and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: CAT is an intervention that appears well suited to addressing vocational functioning in FEP, but larger controlled trials are needed. Show more

Keywords: Cognition, vocational recovery, supported employment, compensatory strategies, environmental supports, schizophrenia

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172517

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 581-589, 2017

Authors: Nilsson, Marie | Blomqvist, Kerstin | Andersson, Ingemar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Experiencing work-life balance is considered a health promoting resource. To counter-balance the negative development of teachers’ work situation, salutogenic resources need to be examined among teachers. OBJECTIVE: To examine resources related to teachers’ experience of their work-life balance. METHODS: Using a cross-sectional design, a questionnaire was distributed to 455 teachers in compulsory schools in a Swedish community. A total of 338 teachers participated (74%). A multiple linear regression method was used for the analysis. RESULTS: Four variables in the regression model significantly explained work-life balance and were thereby possible resources: time experience …at work; satisfaction with everyday life; self-rated health; and recovery. The strongest association with work-life balance was time experience at work. Except time experience at work, all were individual-related. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the importance of school management’s support in reducing teachers’ time pressure. It also emphasizes the need to address teachers’ individual resources in relation to work-life balance. In order to support teachers’ work-life balance, promote their well-being, and preventing teachers’ attrition, we suggest that the school management would benefit from creating a work environment with strengthened resources. Show more

Keywords: Recovery, survey, teachers’ work environment, workplace health promotion

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172528

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 591-602, 2017

Authors: Sigursteinsdóttir, Hjördís | Rafnsdóttir, Gudbjörg Linda | Jónsdóttir, Gudbjörg Andrea

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In 2008, many Western countries faced a great economic recession, the result of which was increased unemployment and reduced public expenditure. OBJECTIVE: This article focuses on changes in the self-reported mental and physical health and health symptoms of the remaining employees of Icelandic municipalities who worked within the educational system and the care service during the economic recession. We examine gender differences in health and differences between downsized workplaces and workplaces where no downsizing occurred and differences between workplaces with heavy workload and light workload. METHODS: The study is based on a balanced panel …online survey and focus groups. RESULTS: The main finding is that both the mental and physical health of employees deteriorated year by year between 2010, 2011 and 2013 in all workplaces although the downsized workplaces and workplaces with heavy workloads fared worse. At the same time, public expenditure on the health care system was reduced. CONCLUSIONS: We hope that our results encourage further studies in the field and that they will be taken into account when dealing with prevention and rehabilitation initiatives. Show more

Keywords: Downsizing, health symptoms, self-reported health, workload, mixed method

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172523

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 603-615, 2017

Authors: Al-Hourani, Zeid | Nazzal, Mohammad | Khader, Yousef | Almhdawi, Khader | Bibars, Abdel Rahim

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dental technology is a profession that requires precise manual skills and dexterous handling of small tools. There is an abundance research on work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) affecting dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants, yet very few articles investigated WMSDs among dental technicians. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs among Jordanian dental technicians and their associated factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was conducted. A sample of Jordanian dental technicians (n  = 81) were asked to complete a validated structured self-administrated questionnaire to measure WMSDs and its associated factors. RESULTS: A …sample of 81 dental technicians completed the survey (50.6% younger than 30 years, 61.7 were males). Pain complains were significantly higher in female, younger technicians, and with increased workload. All participants reported WMSDs in at least one body part in the last 12 months. The most common pain areas reported were in the neck (70.4%) and shoulders (71.6%). CONCLUSION: This study found a high prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in dental technicians. Future studies are indicated to investigate the actual mechanisms causing WMSDs among dental technicians. Show more

Keywords: Dental technology, dental technician, occupational health, work-related musculoskeletal disorders

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172524

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 617-623, 2017

Authors: Nylén, Eva Charlotta | Lindfors, Petra | Ishäll, Lars | Göransson, Sara | Aronsson, Gunnar | Kylin, Camilla | Sverke, Magnus

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Psychosocial factors, including job demands and poor resources, have been linked to stress, health problems, and negative job attitudes. However, worksite based interventions and programs targeting psychosocial factors may change employees’ perceptions of their work climate and work attitudes. OBJECTIVE: This pilot study describes a newly developed worksite based participatory organizational intervention program that was tested in the social service sector. It is evaluated using participants’ perceptions of the intervention to investigate its acceptability as a feature of feasibility and its short-term effects on work climate factors (job demands and resources) and work-related attitudes. METHODS: …Forty employees of a Swedish social service unit provided self-reports before, during, and after the intervention. RESULTS: As for effects, quantitative role overload and social support decreased while turnover intention increased. Responses to an open-ended question showed that participants considered the intervention program valuable for addressing issues relating to the psychosocial work climate. CONCLUSIONS: Although the findings are preliminary, it was possible to carry out this worksite based participatory organizational program in this particular setting. Also, the preliminary findings underscore the challenges associated with designing and implementing this type of intervention program, thus adding to the methodological discussion on implementation and evaluation. Show more

Keywords: Job demands, job resources, psychosocial factors, prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172522

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 625-636, 2017

Authors: Norstedt, Maria

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: What a stroke means for working-age persons has not been sufficiently studied from a sociological perspective. OBJECTIVE: This article uses the empirical material of a larger study to describe and analyze how institutional practices and discourses influence attempts to return to work after a stroke. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten persons who have had a stroke and ten civil servants and professionals from the Swedish Public Employment Service, the Social Insurance Agency, and different health care institutions. The qualitative analysis was inspired by institutional ethnography. RESULTS: The analysis shows how …persons who have had a stroke and civil servants and professionals in welfare organizations share the same goal: a return to working life for the former. The persons in this study related to, translated, and put into practice discourses of normality and employability in this process. However, there were, at times, conflicting institutional practices between the different organizations. CONCLUSIONS: Conflicting institutional practices connected to the discourses of normality and employability contribute to the difficulties that persons who have had a stroke face when trying to return to work after recovery. Show more

Keywords: Swedish welfare state, normality, employability, workability, the work strategy (arbetslinjen)

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172521

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 637-647, 2017