Affiliations: College of Nursing, University of New Mexico,
Albuquerque, NM, USA | Occupational Therapy Graduate Program, University of
New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA | Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA,
USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Cindy Mendelson, PhD, College of
Nursing, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque NM 87131-5688, USA. Tel.: +1 505
272 8241; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Little is known about the physical and discretionary
aspects of work that people with scleroderma (SSc) find difficult. This article
describes the findings from a study that explored the challenges and
adaptations made by individuals with SSc to continue to work. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-two employed individuals with SSc participated.
Participants were predominantly women (82%), white (79%), and well educated
(M=16.9 years). The average age was 47.3 years, and 60.6% were married. Mean
disease duration was 9.7 years, and 56.2% had diffuse SSc. Mean years on the
job was 10.2 (SD ± 8.8), and 71.9% worked at least 35 hours per
week. METHODS: Participants engaged in a single structured interview about
work-related challenges and adaptations. Content and thematic analysis was used
to identify key themes across the interviews. RESULTS: Employees with SSc experienced Work as a daily challenge.
This central theme described the general work experience for most participants.
Three subthemes described their specific experiences: The work environment:
Opportunities, challenges, and accommodations; Career planning; and Supportive
others. CONCLUSIONS: The participants were anxious to find scenarios that
allowed them to continue to work. Worksite accommodations and flexibility in
scheduling can make the difference between working and disability.
