Work - Volume Pre-press, issue Pre-press

Authors: Spjelkavik, Øystein | Enehaug, Heidi | Klethagen, Pål | Howe, Emilie Isager | Fure, Silje C.R. | Terjesen, Hans Christoffer Aargaard | Løvstad, Marianne | Andelic, Nada

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While a vast amount of research focuses on unmodifiable and individual factors that may impact return to work (RTW) for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), less knowledge exists of the relationship between specific workplace factors and work retention. OBJECTIVE: Identify types of accommodation in the workplace that influence the RTW process for employees with TBI and the challenges associated with them. METHODS: A multiple case study consisting of 38 cases and 109 interviews of employees with TBI and their managers conducted between 2017 and 2020 at two time points. RESULTS: Accommodation of …both the organizational and psychosocial work environment influences RTW for employees with TBI. Social support and supportive management may have positive and negative effects. RTW is often not a linear process. Over time, maintaining and developing customized accommodation in the work organization is challenging. CONCLUSIONS: Uncertainty about accommodation in RTW for employees with TBI is closely linked to lack of knowledge in the workplace of how to handle complex and nonlinear RTW processes. Work-oriented rehabilitation should to a greater extent provide managers with relevant information and support to develop the person-environment fit over time. Show more

Keywords: Job retention, management, reintegration, work environment, workplace process

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211440

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-15, 2022

Authors: Xiaolong, Tao | Gull, Nida | Asghar, Muhammad | Sarfraz, Muddassar | Jianmin, Zhang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The study’s value is based on a complete understanding of the employee polychronicity–employee intention to leave the relationship in the health care sector. OBJECTIVE: This study examines (1) the role of job engagement in alleviating the relationship between employee polychronicity and intention to leave, and (2) the moderating impact of perceived supervisor support as a relationship. METHOD: This study employed a cross-cultural research design and collected data from nurses working in public sector hospitals. Through job engagement and perceived supervisor support (PSS), the effect of nurses’ polychronicity on turnover intention was examined using the PLS-SEM …approach. RESULTS: The findings of this study demonstrate that employee polychronicity has an impact on employee turnover. Employee engagement appears to operate as a mediator in the association between employee polychronicity and intention to leave and a moderating effect of PSS. CONCLUSION: By emphasizing employee engagement as a mediator and moderating role, the perceived supervisor supports the association between polychronicity and intention to leave of nurses. This study offered a crisp perspective on the complexities of the links between polychronicity, engagement, perceived organizational support, and employees’ intention to leave. Show more

Keywords: Multitasking behavior, polychronicity, healthcare workers, supervisor support, turnover intention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210509

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-13, 2022

Authors: Kim, Jun-Hee | Yi, Chung-Hwi | Jeon, Hye-Seon | Choi, Woo-Chol Joseph | Weon, Jong-Hyuck | Kwon, Oh-Yun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The occurrence of subacromial pain syndrome (SPS) is associated with the frequent handling and lifting of heavy loads and excessive repetitive work. Thus, assembly workers have a high prevalence of SPS. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in shoulder ROM, muscle strength, asymmetry ratio, function, productivity, and depression between workers with and without SPS. METHODS: Sixty-seven male workers (35 workers with SPS and 32 workers without SPS) participated in this study. Shoulder internal rotation (SIR), shoulder external rotation (SER), shoulder abduction (SAB), shoulder horizontal adduction ROM and SIR, SER, elbow flexion …(EF), scapular depression and adduction, scapular protraction strength were measured. The asymmetry ratio was calculated using the asymmetry ratio formula; shoulder functions were measured using the shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI), disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH), and visual analogue scale (VAS); and Endicott work productivity scale (EWPS). RESULTS: The SPADI (p  = 0.001), DASH (p  = 0.001), and VAS (p  = 0.001) values of workers with SPS were higher than those of workers without SPS. Also, workers with SPS had lower SIR (p  = 0.001) and SAB (p  = 0.002) ROM compared to workers without SPS. In addition, workers with SPS exhibited lower SIR (p  = 0.012) strength than workers without SPS. Workers with SPS had higher asymmetry ratio in SIR (p  = 0.015), SER (p  = 0.005), and EF (p  = 0.008) strength than workers without SPS. CONCLUSIONS: The SIR, SAB ROM, SIR strength, and the asymmetry ratio of SIR, SER, EF strengths could provide an important baseline comparison for the workers with SPS. Show more

Keywords: Subacromial pain syndrome, musculoskeletal disease, range of motion, muscle strength, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211310

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-11, 2022

Authors: Larinier, Nicolas | Vuillerme, Nicolas | Jadaud, Alexandre | Malherbe, Solène | Balaguier, Romain

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Physical activity programs at the workplace have shown positive results on physical capacities and pain for several years. Due to the duration of the training session or the need for an instructor, these supervised programs are rather difficult to implement. For this reason, numerous companies, especially companies in manual sectors, are turning to another solution, i.e. warm-up intervention before the work shift. These interventions present various advantages such as short duration and the possibility to perform exercises in working clothes. Surprisingly, while the positive effects of warm-up interventions on pain, performance, and physical and psychological capacities are expansively reported …in the sport context, effects of workplace warm-up intervention are lacking. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to assess the acute effects of three different warm-up interventions on physical (pain, strength, flexibility) and psychological (workload) functions and also on work-related outcomes (work performance, readiness to work) among vineyard workers. METHODS: A cluster randomized study will be implemented among French vineyard workers. Four groups of 30 participants will be constituted; corresponding to four different conditions: (1) hybrid warm-up intervention (HWU); (2) dynamic warm-up intervention (DWU); (3) stretching warm-up intervention (SWU); (4) no warm-up intervention (NWU). A total of 120 vineyard workers will be recruited to participate in the study. CONCLUSION: The results will provide more evidence about the short-term effects of warm-up interventions at the workplace and will provide more evidence on which warm-up modality is the most effective on pain, performance, and physical and psychological capacities among vineyard workers. Show more

Keywords: Exercise, musculoskeletal disease, work performance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220391

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-16, 2022

Authors: Arvidsson, Lisa | Skytt, Bernice | Lindberg, Maria | Lindberg, Magnus

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Nurses’ working conditions are important for their well-being at work and for their ability to provide patients with safe care. Self-efficacy can influence employees’ behaviour at work. Therefore, it is valuable to study self-efficacy levels to medical asepsis in relation to working conditions. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between nurses assessed self-efficacy levels to medical asepsis in care situations and structural empowerment, work engagement and work-related stress. METHODS: A cross-sectional study with a correlational design was conducted. A total of 417 registered nurses and licensed practical nurses at surgical and orthopaedic units responded to a …questionnaire containing: the Infection Prevention Appraisal Scale, the Conditions of Work Effectiveness Questionnaire-II, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale-9 and the Health & Safety Executive Management Standards Indicator Tool. Correlational analyses and group comparisons were performed. RESULTS: The nurses rated high levels of self-efficacy to medical asepsis in care situations. The correlational analyses revealed that correlation coefficients between structural empowerment, work engagement, work-related stress and self-efficacy to medical asepsis were 0.254–0.268. Significant differences in self-efficacy were found in the grouped working conditions. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that nurses rated high self-efficacy levels to medical asepsis and, to some extent, this seemed related to structural empowerment, work engagement and work-related stress. This valuable knowledge could enable improvements at the managerial and organisational levels, benefiting both nurses and patients in the long run. Show more

Keywords: Infection prevention, working conditions, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211305

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-13, 2022

Authors: Fuentes, Kristina | Lindsay, Sally

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread changes in the way people work. Some of these changes represent the same kinds of work modifications or adjustments that have often been requested as workplace accommodations, and which may improve labour market and employment outcomes for people with disabilities. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this scoping review was to examine the literature on workplace accommodations in the pandemic and their impacts and implications for people with disabilities. METHODS: Following a search of six international databases, articles were selected by two reviewers, and data were abstracted in accordance with …scoping review methodology. A thematic analysis was used to report the relevant findings. RESULTS: Thirty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria, and three main themes were identified: positive impacts of pandemic-related workplace accommodations on people with disabilities (e.g., improved accessibility, reduced stigma around workplace accommodations, rapid implementation of workplace accommodations, opportunities for advocacy); negative impacts (e.g., worsened physical and mental health, new accommodation needs); and action needed and recommendations (e.g., revisit legislation and policy on accommodations, ensure representation of people with disabilities). Overall, our review identified a mixed assessment of the impacts of pandemic-related accommodations on people with disabilities. However, there was a broader consensus regarding the importance of learning from the experiences of the pandemic to improve workplace accommodation policies in the future. CONCLUSIONS: The pandemic may present opportunities for improving workplace accommodation policies, but our review also highlights the need for more research examining how workplace changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted people with disabilities. Show more

Keywords: Pandemics, disabled persons, employment; teleworking

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220129

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-26, 2022

Authors: Soo, S.Y. | Ang, W.S. | Chong, C.H. | Tew, I.M. | Yahya, N.A.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is an increasing concern about musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), resulting from occupational health hazards among dentists. Dentists who are susceptible to occupational health hazards could develop cumulative trauma disorders, lead to absenteeism from work, loss of productivity and performance or even long-term disability. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among dentists, explore the risk factors and identify the ergonomics preventive measures for dental professionals. METHODS: Articles published between 2008–2020 were searched in scientific databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane Library). The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Systematic Review checklist was used …to assess the quality of the studies. RESULTS: Eighteen studies were found to be suitable in the final review. Relevant data was extracted and summarized from the included studies. The annual prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in any body site ranged between 68% and 100% . The most predominant regions for musculoskeletal disorders among dental professionals were identified to be the lower back (29% to 94.6% ), shoulder (25% to 92.7% ), and neck (26% to 92% ). The most frequently reported risk factors of MSDs were the individual characteristic female gender (57.1% ), followed by awkward working postures (50% ), long working experience (50% ) and being dental specialists (42.9% ). Several preventive measures were identified as the most effective ways in preventing MSDs, the use of magnification (40% ) and regular physical activity (40% ). CONCLUSIONS: This review reported high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) among dentists. It critically updates and adds the latest evidence on occupational ergonomics among dentists. Show more

Keywords: Cumulative trauma disorder, occupational risk, musculoskeletal pain, dentistry

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211094

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-8, 2022

Authors: Hult, Marja | Saaranen, Terhi | Lindström, Petra Nilsson

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The salutogenic approach in workplace health promotion emphasizes resources to gain and maintain good health and wellbeing. One of these resources could be calling, but its relation to the salutogenic approach is unknown. OBJECTIVE: To explore the associations between salutogenic measures of health and occupational wellbeing and calling among workers from the care and educational sectors. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Autumn 2020 among Finnish public and private sector care workers. A total of 7925 workers responded. Descriptive analyses and analysis of variance were used for the data analysis. RESULTS: Salutogenic …measures of health and occupational wellbeing correlated strongly mutually, and both correlated moderately with calling. Workers aged over 55 years, workers acting in the education sector, workers with superior positions and temporary workers had the highest scores on health, occupational wellbeing and calling. When comparing occupational wellbeing dimensions by profession, managers had the highest scores and nurses the lowest. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides knowledge of promotive factors and health and occupational wellbeing resources for workplace health promotion in the care sector. Perceived calling in work can be considered a salutogenic resource for overall health and wellbeing; however, these connections should be further studied. Show more

Keywords: Education, health care, salutogenic approach, social services, work experience, workplace health promotion

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211326

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-10, 2022

Authors: Batista, Gabriel de Amorim | Locks, Francisco | Beltrán Picón, Sol Patricia | Correia, Heloísa Jácome | Ferraz, Zalane Cristina Marques | Pitangui, Ana Carolina Rodarti | Cappato de Araújo, Rodrigo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Fruitculture workers are exposed to shoulder pain disorders due to long working time in overhead activities. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to analyze the association between the time of physical work and leisure activities over the perception of shoulder pain intensity in fruit growing workers. METHODS: This is a descriptive and correlational cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 180 fruit-growing workers. Multivariable logistic regression was used, with an estimate of the Odds Ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals. The dependent variable: Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) (0–10 points), was categorized as low and high, with cutoff …points NPRS > 3 and NPRS > 4, and was associated with the independent variables (level of physical activity, personal, labour and psychosocial). RESULTS: Workers which are insufficiently active in leisure time are more likely to report high-intensity shoulder pain, NPRS > 3 (OR: 2.39; p  = 0.049) and NPRS > 4 (OR: 2.85; p  = 0.036). In addition, working time in overhead activities is a risk factor for high-intensity pain for NPRS > 3 and NPRS > 4 (OR = 1.01; p  < 0.001). Underweight and normal-weight workers were less likely to report shoulder pain in NPRS > 3 (OR = 0.35; p  = 0.020) and in NPRS > 4 (OR = 0.20; p  = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Fruit-growing workers had a high prevalence of severe shoulder pain. In addition, workers who are insufficiently active at leisure, overweight and obese are more likely to report severe pain. It was observed that overhead tasks increase the chances of reporting high-intensity shoulder pain among workers. Show more

Keywords: Shoulder Joint, pain, occupational health, agricultural workers’ diseases, rural workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210851

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-10, 2022

Authors: Bashir, Raima | Alam, Beenish Fatima | Nayab, Talha | Fahim, Faisal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: COVID-19 bitterly jolted the lives of masses around the globe, and affected the physical, mental, health, and quality of life of majority of individuals. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to assess the quality of life of dental students of public and private colleges and those residing in college accommodation and own home using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 402 dental students of a private and public university. Students’ T -test was used to compare the data. Relationship between gender, institute and accommodation (college accommodation or own home) was …assessed by multiple linear regression. P -value of < 0.05 was taken significant. RESULTS: The participants rated their quality of life to be good (mean Score 3.99±SD 0.93) during the post COVID-19 pandemic, while satisfaction with health was neutral to satisfactory (3.77±SD 0.87). A significant difference regarding physical health and social relationship domains was observed between the private and public university students. Significant differences in all domains of QOL was also reported among students living in own homes verses those students utilizing college accommodation. CONCLUSION: The post COVID-19 quality of life of dental students in both private and public institutes differed with respect to physical and environmental domains. The difference was more significant among the student living in college accommodation and those living at home, which underscores that effort should be made to facilitate the students to improve their quality-of-life post pandemic so that they may be more focused on studies and perform better. Show more

Keywords: Social domain, health domain, mental well-being, environmental domain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211351

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-9, 2022