Work - Volume 72, issue 1

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-223635

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 1-2, 2022

Authors: Rumrill, Phillip | Sheppard-Jones, Kathy | Collett, Johnny W. | McCurry, Sara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This article, the first in the Return-to-Work (RTW) Corner series, summarizes a comprehensive RTW and Stay-at-Work (SAW) program in Kentucky, which is funded by the United States Department of Labor. The program, Retaining Employment and Talent After Injury/Illness Network: Kentucky (RETAIN Kentucky), focuses on RTW and SAW strategies, depending upon participants’ employment status at the time of enrollment in the project. RETAIN Kentucky services are implemented by RTW Coordinators (RTWCs) who help people with non-work-related injuries and illnesses continue in the workforce. The first Phase of RETAIN Kentucky, which lasted for nearly 3 years, is now informing the Phase 2 …intervention, which began in October 2021 and will enroll participants for 30 months. In this article, we outline the employment retention problem that RETAIN Kentucky addresses, describe the key features and services of the program, summarize our findings so far, and present future directions for Phase 2. Show more

Keywords: Kentucky, return to work, stay at work, work disability, conservation of resources theory

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-223633

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 3-8, 2022

Authors: de Oliveira, Thais Cristine dos Santos | Muzeka, Ana Luiza Pedrini | Batista, Emilly | dos Santos, Gessica Nair Farias Eleuterio | Rocha, Luiz Fernando Isaias da | Legey, Ângela Luiza Cunha | Klein, Alison Alfred | Motter, Arlete Ana

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: COVID-19 was first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. With the rapid spread of the virus, the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020 declared the initial outbreak of the disease a pandemic. OBJECTIVE: To assess the challenges and consequences of working from home on worker health during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: Cross-sectional and descriptive study developed in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, from December 2020 to January 2021. An online questionnaire was used to interview workers working from home and later a statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: 327 workers from various fields of …activity participated, mainly those from the south of the country, women, and workers who develop activities in education. In addition, results show anxiety and/or irritability, weight gain, discouragement, headaches and muscle and joint problems. CONCLUSION: Most participants found an increase in working hours while working from home, with several breaks during the day and adequate furniture. However, there was a worsening of physical pain and changes in symptoms of anxiety, weight gain, discouragement and headaches. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, musculoskeletal diseases, remote work, COVID-19

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210553

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 9-17, 2022

Authors: Demir, Bahadir | Sahin, Sengul Kocamer | Atalay, Unzile Meryem | Aslan, Esra | Elboga, Gülcin | Altindag, Abdurrahman

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This study is the second leg of a two-leg project. In the first leg, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers (HCWs) was investigated in the period between the first case in Turkey and the arrival of the first case in the hospital. OBJECTIVE: In this second leg, three months after the first evaluation, we aimed to investigate whether psychological effects of COVID-19 such as stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality have been changed on HCWs. METHODS: This was a 3-month observational study. 169 hospital staff who participated in the first leg of …the study were reached and asked to participate in the second leg evaluation in Gaziantep University Medical Faculty Hospital.110 HCWs accepted to participate. Impact of Event Scale (EIS-R), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used to assess in both two legs. Paired Sample T -test was used for comparison of normally distributed variables. Wilcoxon test was used for the comparison of abnormally distributed variables. SPSS 22.0 software was used in the analysis of variables. RESULTS: Of the HCWs with an average age of 33.9±6.6 years, 59% (65) were males. There was no significant difference between the two legs in terms of IES-R, DASS-21, and PSQI scales. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on HCWs started with the pandemic, before the arrival of the first case in the hospital. Also, these psychological effects continued similarly without significant change after the initiation of direct contact with COVID-19 patients and even after the increase in COVID-19 patients in a hospital which in they work. Show more

Keywords: Pandemics, coronavirus, healthcare workers, health personnel, anxiety, depression

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210896

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 19-26, 2022

Authors: Fadhel, Fahmi H. | Alqahtani, Mohammed M.J. | Arnout, Boshra A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Anxiety and concern are among the most common problems facing healthcare workers (HCWs) during epidemic diseases. OBJECTIVE: To identify the predictive factors of anxiety, fears, and psychological distress among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: An online survey method was used on a sample of 153 of HCWs; (110) frontline and (43) non-frontline HCWs. They answered on the Hamilton anxiety rating scale, the Kessler psychological distress scale (K10), and the COVID-19 Concerns Questionnaire. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that 47.05% of HCWs have a severe level of fear related to COVID-19, 43.13% have …very severe anxiety, and 30.71% experience severe psychological distress. The differences between frontline and non-frontline HCWs, female and male HCWs, and HCWs working in medical clinics, on quarantine, or in another place were significant in the three scales. Predictive factors of anxiety, fear, and psychological distress include working on the front lines, being female, and being over 50 years old. Meanwhile, working in a workplace with COVID-19 patients predicted anxiety and psychological distress, but not fears associated with COVID-19. CONCLUSION: HCWs have a high prevalence of symptoms of mental disorders that may interfere with their work. These results may have therapeutic applications during pandemics. Show more

Keywords: Mental health, work anxiety, HCWs, COVID-19, path analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211134

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 27-38, 2022

Authors: Rodrigues, Edilson Alves | Rampasso, Izabela Simon | Serafim, Milena Pavan | Filho, Walter Leal | Anholon, Rosley

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic affected the work environment worldwide and forced companies to adopt work from home (WFH) suddenly. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to identify factors that influence productivity in the WFH modality, considering the Brazilian scenario in the COVID-19 context. METHODS: The approach used was a Delphi method with 19 specialists in the subject. Three rounds were conducted; in the third round, specialists indicated how the factor influences productivity through a scale. For the data collected in this last round, data was analysed via Grey Relational Analysis technique. RESULTS: The results indicated that …17 factors could influence productivity in the WFH modality in the analysed context. Comparatively, the five factors with more capacity to influence productivity are 1) Availability of adequate equipment and peripherals to develop the work activities; 2) leadership support; 3) The adequate place to develop work activities; 4) Internet and electricity supply stability; and 5) Clarity from the collaborator regarding their role in the company, responsibilities and activities to be developed. The frequency analysis indicated that factors affect at least moderately productivity in WFH modality. CONCLUSIONS: This article contributes to increasing knowledge associated with the WFH modality in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The information present here can be used by academics and managers, even in a post-pandemic scenario, to debate productivity in remote work modalities. Show more

Keywords: Remote work, work efficiency, pandemic, Brazil, COVID-19

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211212

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 39-48, 2022

Authors: Göktaş, Ayşe | Özdinç, Sevgi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has become a major cause of stress and anxiety at work. OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of the support provided to the employees by the workplaces about the depression, anxiety, stress, job satisfaction of the employees during the COVID-19. METHOD: The inclusion criterias were as follows: being between 18 and 65 years old, working at the time of the survey. The study self-administered included Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale (DASS), Organizational Support Perception Scale, Job Satisfaction Scale (JSS). RESULTS: In total, 260 people (mean age 38.17±14.9 years, 148 female) completed the survey. Extremely …severe depression displayed on 39.9 %, extremely severe anxiety on 37.1%, and severe stress on 28.3% of the participants. Scores for depression (9.6±9.03), anxiety (7.2±7.04), stress (11.7±7.8) were also high for employees. It was observed that the average of organizational support score was 30.4±7.24, and the average job satisfaction score was 28.6±5.35. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between organizational support and job satisfaction (r  = 0.562, p  = 0.00). Considering the relationship between organizational support and DASS scale; there was negative correlation between (r  =-0.161, p  = 0.013). The results of the regression indicated that the model explained 32.9 % of the variance and that the model was a significant predictor, F (2,66)=117.145, p  < 0.001. CONCLUSION: Organizational support are associated with a decline in mental health and job satisfaction. Health-promotion strategies directed at adopting or maintaining positive job organizational support-related behaviors should be utilized to address increases in psychological distress during the pandemic. Show more

Keywords: COVID 19, DASS scale, depression, anxiety, stress, organizational support perception, job satisfaction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211229

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 49-58, 2022

Authors: Stehle, Luna | Hoosain, Munira | van Niekerk, Lana

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A high number of breast cancer survivors need to resume work. Therefore, interventions aimed at effective work-related transitions are important. OBJECTIVE: A systematic review to determine what occupational therapy interventions are effective in work-related transitions of breast cancer survivors. METHODS: Multiple databases were searched for studies on work-related interventions within the scope of occupational therapy. Studies were included if 70% or more study participants were working age (> 18 years) breast cancer survivors, and work-related transition outcome measures were used. RESULTS: The search yielded 2 872 articles, of which 12 met the inclusion criteria. …When classified according to the International Classification of Function Framework, quantitative sources focussed on Body Structures and Functions component and Multicomponents (consists of the Body Structures and Functions Component and the Activities Component) showed positive effects on improving the work-related transitions of BC survivors, however, the effects were statistically insignificant and the strength of evidence was moderate. Participants in a qualitative source reported that after they underwent a physical exercise programme their work performance improved. A Multicomponents intervention study showed statistically significant improvements on self-reported work-related outcomes of BC survivors. Low evidence was found for implementing a vocational rehabilitation case management programme targeting the Activities component, which showed positive effects in reducing the sick leave days of BC survivors, but the effects were statistically insignificant. No evidence was found for programmes focussed on restoring the Participation component. CONCLUSION: The evidence included in this systematic review were insufficient to recommend occupational therapy interventions that are effective (showing statistically significant improvements) for work-related transitions of BC cancer survivors. Show more

Keywords: Work-related transitions, occupational therapy interventions, vocational rehabilitation, breast cancer

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210053

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 59-73, 2022

Authors: Bohatko-Naismith, Joanna | McCormack, Lynne | Weerasekara, Ishanka | James, Daphne | Marley, Jeffrey

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Mental distress is often endured by injured workers participating in the rehabilitation or return to work process following a physical injury. Delays in detecting the onset and treating mental distress can lead to a diverse range of cognitive and behavioural changes that may precipitate psychological distress such as anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this scoping review was to provide an overview of existing health questionnaires utilised by health care providers and affiliated researchers. It reviewed their effectiveness and suitability to detect mental distress endured by injured workers engaged in the return to work …process. METHODS: A scoping review methodology was conducted using the Arksey and O’Malley framework which examined peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and March 2020 comprising health questionnaires. Database searches included Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE and PsycINFO combining specific MeSH terms and key words. RESULTS: The full search identified 3168 articles. Following full screening a total of 164 articles reviewed the use of health questionnaires and specific criteria to determine their suitability. Most of the health questionnaires reviewed were used as screening measures for identifying both work and non-work-related psychological hazards. However, they were found to be limited in their application when considering all potential predictors of delayed return to work such as poor or stressful interactions with stakeholders, financial stress and the injured workers experience of the RTW process. CONCLUSION: Earlier identification of mental distress using an optimal MHSQ followed by appropriate intervention will reduce the risk of psychological injury becoming cumulative on a physical workplace injury. Without such complications, early return to work can be achieved with significant cost saving to the economy. Show more

Keywords: Workplace, health care practitioner, screening, rehabilitation, return to work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205027

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 75-90, 2022

Authors: Wu, Jean | McCullough, Michael | Panisset, Maya G. | Galea, Mary P.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are highly prevalent among dental professionals. Studies examining the prevention of dental work-related MSDs have been completed globally. OBJECTIVE: To identify and evaluate the available evidence regarding MSD prevention in dental practice, and to identify knowledge gaps. METHODS: An electronic search was conducted across multiple scientific databases. Identified articles were assessed according to inclusion/exclusion criteria. Systematic reviews, interventions and published expert opinion were included. RESULTS: Five systematic reviews, 27 intervention studies and 21 expert opinion articles were included. There was overall consensus that use of ergonomic equipment is beneficial in …MSD prevention. Knowledge gaps identified included: a lack of systematic reviews on the role of exercise and therapy in MSD prevention; a lack of high-quality intervention studies; a lack of research in general outside of ergonomic equipment use. Expert opinion articles have been published despite a lack of dental-specific research. CONCLUSIONS: Whilst more robust research is required, current evidence supports the use of optical enhancement, saddle chairs, and wide-diameter silicone-handled instruments in MSD prevention. Knowledge gaps were identified relating to the use of exercise, therapy, and education in the prevention of dental work-related MSDs. Further research is required, specifically high-quality intervention studies. Show more

Keywords: Dentists, ergonomics, occupational injury, scoping review

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205257

Citation: Work, vol. 72, no. 1, pp. 91-108, 2022