Work - Volume 68, issue 3

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203391

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 523-524, 2021

Authors: Al Eid, Nawal A. | Arnout, Boshra A. | Alqahtani, Mohammed M.J. | Fadhel, Fahmi H. | Abdelmotelab, Abdalla s.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Over the past few months, there has been a significant increase in mortality and morbidity due to Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Less attention has been paid to stigmatism, psychological well-being, hope, and religiosity, and how these may impact a patient’s recovery. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to detect the difference in religiosity, hope, self-stigma, and psychological well-being (PWB) due to demographic variables (age, education level, social status, and level of income). Additionally, the research sought to test the mediation role of religiosity and hope in the relationship between self-stigma and psychological well-being among COVID-19 patients. METHOD: …A random sample of 426 COVID-19 patients answered an online questionnaire that contained four scales (Religiosity, Hope, stigma, and PWB). The data collected from the study participants were analyzed quantitatively by using One-way ANOVA, Exploratory Factor Analysis EFA, Confirmatory Factor Analysis CFA, and Structural Equation Model (IBM SPSS statistics 21, and Amos v.25). RESULTS: The current results showed statistically significant differences due to age in hope and well-being, in favor of the sample members belonging to the age group from 30 years old and over old, while there were no differences in religiosity and stigma due to age. There were no differences due to education level in religiosity, hope, stigma, and well-being. Results showed statistically significant differences in well-being in favor of the married group, while there were no differences in religiosity, hope, and stigma due to social status. Regarding the effect of income level in the study variables, the results showed no differences due to religiosity, hope, stigma, and well-being. Moreover, the findings found that both religiosity and hope play a mediating role. CONCLUSION: Religiosity and hope play a mediating role in the relationship between stigma associated with COVID-19 and psychological well-being. These results indicate several strategies to reduce the adverse effects of the stigma associated with COVID-19 and increase well-being among COVID-19 patients. Show more

Keywords: Religiosity, hope, stigma, psychological well-being (PWB), COVID-19 patients

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203392

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 525-541, 2021

Authors: Zandian, Hamed | Sarailoo, Mehdi | Dargahi, Shahriar | Gholizadeh, Helia | Dargahi, Abdollah | Vosoughi, Mehdi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that have symptoms ranging from the common cold to severe respiratory syndromes. Objective: The purpose of this study is to provide appropriate strategies to raise knowledge and health behavior of students of the University of Medical Sciences to prevent COVID-19. Methods: This study was conducted as a cross-sectional and descriptive study, and the online questionnaire was used by random sampling. Our sample size was 360 subjects and the statistical population was the students of the University of Medical Sciences. We used the nonparametric test (Kruskal Wallis, Mann-Whitney U) …and (Chi-Square & t -test) for statistical analysis. Results: The test results were statistically significant for students’ health behavior (p  < 0.01, df –99). The knowledge of women was higher than men (F  = 5.32, p  < 0.02). Conclusion: The results show that the Ministry of Health has acted well in promoting students’ knowledge and health-promoting behaviors. Therefore, it is recommended that such research be conducted in the public statistical population. Show more

Keywords: Coronaviruses, health principles, social distance, public attitude

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203395

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 543-549, 2021

Authors: Pijpker, Roald | Vaandrager, Lenneke | Veen, Esther J. | Koelen, Maria A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Most research on burnout has focused on its antecedents, correlates, and consequences. However, little empirical attention has been paid to what constitutes successful rehabilitation after burnout, especially among young employees. OBJECTIVE: The present study empirically examined resources supporting successful rehabilitation after burnout among young employees (between 18 and 35 years of age) from a salutogenic perspective. METHODS: Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used as a methodological framework to explain the experiences of young employees underlying their rehabilitation after burnout. RESULTS: The analysis showed that the rehabilitation process comprises four phases: 1) facing the crisis; …2) addressing the root causes; 3) seizing and achieving the opportunity; and 4) staying at work. Essential overarching resources facilitating successful recovery after burnout included receiving social support from family, friends, and colleagues, as well as having a feeling of control over the rehabilitation process. Participants learned to be aware of potential pitfalls that could trigger burnout symptoms, while having confidence in their ability to prevent burnout from reoccurring. These continuous learning processes were experienced as a prerequisite to remain at work. CONCLUSIONS: Receiving social support and experiencing a feeling of control over the rehabilitation process appear to be key resources in facilitating a stable, meaningful return to work after burnout. Show more

Keywords: Coping, exhaustion, recovery, resources, workforce

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203393

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 551-561, 2021

Authors: Amaro, Joana | Ubalde-López, Mònica | Lucas, Raquel

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Beyond the health-enhancing effects, work also has the potential of causing or worsening different health conditions in the same individual. However, research on within-worker aggregation of work-related health problems is scarce. OBJECTIVE: To describe the history and aggregation of work-related health problems in a population-based sample of women. METHODS: A total of 4330 women were asked whether they had ever had “a physical or mental health problem that was caused or made worse by your work”. The aggregation of work-related health problems was assessed using an exploratory factor analysis. RESULTS: Five groups were …identified. Factor 1 included all items on musculoskeletal disorders - lower socioeconomic position, higher BMI, smokers and history of occupational accidents. Factor 2 included mental disorders together with headache and/or eyestrain - higher socioeconomic position. Factor 3 included the other disorders item with some loading from digestive disorders - older and public sector workers. Factor 4 included respiratory disorders - lower socioeconomic position and history of occupational accidents. Factor 5 included hearing and ear problems - blue-collar workers. CONCLUSION: There was a relevant aggregation of work-related health problems, which may inform the selection of specific components for interventions that aim to improve women’s work-related health. Show more

Keywords: Disease aggregation, factor analysis, cohort study, women’s health, work-related health problems

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203394

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 563-576, 2021

Authors: Viviani, C.A. | Bravo, G. | Lavallière, M. | Arezes, P.M. | Martínez, M. | Dianat, I. | Bragança, S. | Castellucci, H.I.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Worldwide ageing and thus, workforce ageing, is a concern for both developed and developing nations. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the current research was to determine, through a systematic literature review, the effects of age in three dimensions that are often used to define or assess productivity at work. METHODS: PICO framework was used to generate search strategies, inclusion criteria and terms. Scopus and PubMed databases were used. Peer-reviewed journal papers written in English and published (or in press) between January 2014 and December 2018 were included. RESULTS: After filtering through inclusion …criteria, 74 papers were included in the review. Considering productivity, 41%of the findings showed no differences between younger and older workers, 31%report better productivity of younger workers and 28%reported that older workers had better productivity than younger workers. Performance was better in older workers (58%), presenteeism generally showed no significant differences between age groups (61%). Absenteeism was the only outcome where younger workers outperformed older workers (43%). CONCLUSION: Overall, there was no difference in productivity between older and younger workers. Older workers performed better than younger workers, but had more absenteeism, while presenteeism showed no differences. As ageing has come to workplaces, holistic approaches addressing total health are suggested to overcome the worldwide workforce ageing phenomenon. Show more

Keywords: Performance, aging, ageing, absenteeism, presenteeism

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203396

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 577-618, 2021

Authors: Alam, Mohd Mukhtar | Khan, Abid Ali | Farooq, Mohd

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Vibration therapy (VT) causes an increase in motor unit activation tendency, an involuntary recruitment of earlier sedentary motor units, which increases the muscle fiber force generating capacity and muscle performance. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of vibratory massage therapy at 23 Hz and 35 Hz on grip strength, endurance, and forearm muscle performance (in terms of EMG activity). METHODS: Ten healthy and right-handed men participated voluntarily in this study. The experiment was characterized by the measurement of MVC (maximal voluntary contraction) grip strength and grip endurance time at 50%MVC, accompanied by the corresponding measurement of the EMG …signals of the muscles viz., flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS); flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU); extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB); and extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) in supine posture. RESULTS: MANCOVA results showed significant effects of VT frequency on endurance time (p  < 0.001); but no significant effect on the grip strength (p  = 0.161) and muscle performance (in terms of EMG activities of the forearm muscles). However, VT improves the MVC grip strength and grip endurance time (better at 35 Hz). The Pearson correlation was significant between: weight, palm length, palm circumference, and forearm length with MVC grip strength; and the palm length with the endurance time. In addition, the palm length, palm circumference, and forearm circumference generally serve to better predict MVC grip strength and grip endurance time. CONCLUSIONS: Vibration therapy at 35 Hz for 10 minutes on the forearms had a significant positive effect on the neuromuscular performance to enhance muscle performance of upper extermitites and can be used as the optimal range to study the effect of VT. Findings may be used to prepare guidelines for VT in rehabilitation, healthcare, sports, and medical for therapists. Show more

Keywords: Electromyography, maximal voluntary contraction, nueromuscular performance, and anthropometric measurements

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203397

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 619-632, 2021

Authors: Foltran-Mescollotto, Fabiana | Gonçalves, Érica Brito | Castro-Carletti, Ester Moreira de | Oliveira, Ana Beatriz | Pelai, Elisa Bizetti | Rodrigues-Bigaton, Delaine

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Excessive use of smartphones may be associated with behavioral and physical health changes and might cause musculoskeletal alterations in the head and neck region. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of smartphone addiction in college students and its correlation with symptoms of head and neck pain and masticatory and trapezius muscle activity while resting, before and after smartphone use. Methods: Twenty university students participated in the study. They answered the Smartphone Addiction Scale and the Fonseca Anamnestic Index. Next, the participants were seated and prepared for electromyography through the placement of surface electrodes on the masseter, …temporal, and trapezius muscles. Rest condition data were collected for 10 seconds before and after 30 minutes of smartphone use. Results: The results showed that 35% of the evaluated individuals were classified as smartphone addicted and 35% reported no head or neck pain in the previous 30 days. There was no association between smartphone use and head and neck pain. In the electromyography, there was an increase in RMS values after smartphone use in the right and left masseter muscles and the left trapezius. Conclusion: College students presented a high prevalence of smartphone addiction and head and neck pain, but these were not statistically associated. There was a change in muscle activity only in the right trapezius muscles before and after 30 minutes of smartphone use. These findings are contrary to the current belief that the use of smartphones correlates with pain in the neck region and changes in the electrical muscle activity, leading to fatigue in the cervical muscles. Show more

Keywords: Cervical pain, stomatognathic system, muscle activity, electromyography

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203398

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 633-640, 2021

Authors: Markkanen, Pia | Peters, Susan E. | Grant, Michael | Dennerlein, Jack T. | Wagner, Gregory R. | Burke, Lisa | Wallace, Lorraine | Sorensen, Glorian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: With the growth the food service industry and associated high injury and illness rates, there is a need to assess workplace factors that contribute to injury prevention. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this report is to describe the development, application, and utility of a new instrument to evaluate ergonomics and safety for food service workers. METHODS: Starting with a similar tool developed for use in healthcare, a new tool was designed through a collaborative, participatory process with the stakeholders from a collaborating food service company. The new instrument enables the identification and assessment of key safety …and health factors through a focused walkthrough of the physical work environment, and structured interviews exploring the organizational work environment. The researchers applied the instrument at 10 of the partnering company’s worksites. RESULTS: The instrument identified factors related to both the physical work environment and organizational and contextual environment (e.g., vendor-client relationships) impacting worker safety and health. CONCLUSIONS: Modern assessment approaches should address both the physical and organizational aspects of the work environment, and consider the context complexities in which the worksites and the industry operate. Show more

Keywords: Human factors, occupational safety and health, safety management, occupational injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, risk assessment, work organization

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203399

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 641-651, 2021

Authors: Hittle, Beverly M. | Gillespie, Gordon L. | Jones, Holly J. | Bhattacharya, Amit

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prescribing patient care providers regularly experience insufficient sleep, putting them at increased risk of committing occupational injuries, accidents, and errors and developing chronic health conditions. OBJECTIVE: Identify antecedents to short sleep (≤6-hours sleep in 24-hour period) in the understudied population of hospital-based Advanced Practice Providers (APPs). METHODS: Using an ethnographic research design, data included APP and key stakeholder interviews, hospital observations, and relevant documents. Interview data were analyzed using modified constant comparative method. RESULTS: Nine APPs were interviewed, revealing four themes: Social/Family Obligations and Value of Connectivity, Community Value of Sleep, Organizational Value …of Sleep, and Individual Biology and How the Body Values Sleep. APP decisions to prioritize sleep are based on an interplay of societal, professional, organizational, and personal values. Triangulated data verified results, except regarding how APP sleep deficit can lead to mood disturbances and the lack sleep consideration in patient care error reporting. CONCLUSIONS: Findings demonstrate the importance of consistency in messaging, action, and policy when promoting occupational sleep health among healthcare workers. Implications include instituting worker sleep education, leadership modeling healthy sleep habits, and inclusion of sleep in root cause analyses. Additional consideration includes evaluating the influence of nursing culture on nurse practitioners’ sleep habits. Show more

Keywords: Sleep health, work culture, work organization, sleep education, patient safety

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203400

Citation: Work, vol. 68, no. 3, pp. 653-665, 2021