Work - Volume 75, issue 2

Authors: Rababah, Jehad A. | Al-Hammouri, Mohammed Munther | Ta’an, Wafa’a

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health literacy plays a key role in promoting overall health and preventing diseases among individuals and communities. However, the literature regarding health literacy among university employees is still evolving and not thoroughly understood. OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to examine the association between health literacy and sociodemographic characteristics and nutritional status of university employees in Jordan. METHODS: This study was conducted using a cross-sectional design. A total of 163 university employees participated by completing a demographics questionnaire and the Health Literacy Questionnaire. The Health Literacy Questionnaire is considered a comprehensive tool to assess health literacy, …and it encompasses nine distinct scales. The body mass index was calculated by obtaining the participants’ height and weight. RESULTS: The results of multivariate analysis of variance showed that three factors had a statistically significant effect on the linear composite of the Health Literacy Questionnaire scales. These factors were the university employees’ age, highest level of education, and body mass index. Follow-up analyses revealed that university employees’ sociodemographic characteristics and nutritional status affect different domains of health literacy. Compared to overweight employees, those with normal body mass index had higher mean average scores on six (out of nine) scales of the Health Literacy Questionnaire. CONCLUSION: These results highlight the need for addressing the nutritional status and sociodemographic characteristics as a source of disparity in university employees’ health literacy. Such factors should be addressed in designing tailored health promotion interventions for university employees. Show more

Keywords: Health literacy, university employees, health promotion, nutritional status

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211462

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 591-601, 2023

Authors: Gumasing, Ma. Janice J. | Prasetyo, Yogi Tri | Cardoso, Mateus Moreira | Freitas, Januário Sebastião | Nadlifatin, Reny | Chuenyindee, Thanatorn

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Traffic enforcers are vulnerable to work accidents, injuries, and illnesses because they are commonly exposed to ergonomic risk factors while performing their tasks. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of environmental risk factors and postural risk factor to the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among traffic enforcers in Manila City, Philippines using binary logistic regression analysis. METHODS: A total of 120 participants were included in the study. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) were utilized. In addition, several devices such as a noise dosimeter, digital …air thermometer, and IAQ sensors were also utilized to measure the environmental exposure of enforcers during their work shift. RESULTS: The prevalence of MSDs among traffic enforcers was high, with 71% of the respondents reporting symptoms of MSDs in more than one part of the body for the past 7 days. The body part that has highest prevalence was upper back, followed by lower back, and legs/ankles. Logistic regression analysis revealed that awkward work posture (OR = 4.61, 95% CI = 2.17, 9.83), noise exposure (OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.11, 1.82), heat exposure (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.85, 1.05), and pollution exposure (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.85, 1.05) were significant contributors for the prevalence of MSDs among traffic enforcers in Manila City. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of MSDs among traffic enforcers is caused by their work posture and exposure to psychosocial factors such as noise, heat, and poor air quality. Thus, to minimize the risk of MSDs, it is suggested to provide administrative controls, such as job rotation or shifting, and introduce frequent rest breaks. It is also recommended to provide enforcers with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as cooling vests, noise-canceling earplugs and N95 facemasks. This would help in uplifting musculoskeletal health for traffic enforcers and other workers in a similar field. Show more

Keywords: Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, Rapid Entire Body Assessment, personal protective equipment, logistic regression, ergonomic risk factors, health, traffic

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220011

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 603-614, 2023

Authors: ElRefaei, Manal Ahmed | Waly, Eman H. | Mattout, Sara Kamal | Ebraheem, Badr Hasan | Abdelfatah Ataia, Nehal Hamdey | El-Sokkary, Rehab Hosny

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Radiologists need to learn more about the management of their emotions and their impact on individual well-being as well as proper communication within the radiology realm. OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the relationship between joining social events organized by the radiology department of Al-Ahrar Teaching Hospital and the emotional intelligence of radiologists. METHODS: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 82 radiologists at the Radiology Department of Al-Ahrar Teaching Hospital, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. This was preceded by a pilot study among radiologists, and modification of the questionnaire items to be more precise. The …questionnaire consisted of three sections: it assessed sociodemographic, personnel, and workplace characteristics of the participants; social events’ related factors, and emotional intelligence of radiologists. RESULTS: 52.4% of radiologists had moderate emotional intelligence scores, and 24.4% had high emotional intelligence scores. High emotional intelligence scores were significantly associated and positively correlated with the increased participants’ years of work experience and frequency of attending social events, and the overall impression of the events. The radiologists’ overall impression of the social events was the only significant independent predictor of a high emotional intelligence score. CONCLUSION: The majority of the participants in this study had moderate to high emotional intelligence scores. The social events that were organized by the radiology department succeeded in crossing-over the gaps in communication and workflow knowledge that take place due to significant personnel turnover and should be considered for improving team preparedness and communication in similar workplaces. Show more

Keywords: Team, workplace, radiology department, relationship, communication

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220012

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 615-624, 2023

Authors: Do, Ji-Hye | Yoo, Eun-Young | Jung, Min-Ye | Park, Ji-Hyuk | Hong, Ickpyo | Lee, Seohyun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Job satisfaction is a highly useful factor in maintaining a successful work life for the disabled. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate how job satisfaction among workers with physical disabilities evolves over time, and to identify predictive factors that influence the trajectory of job satisfaction. METHODS: A longitudinal data analysis using the three-year databases of the 2016–2018 Employment Panel Survey for the Disabled (n  = 693). A latent growth curve model analysis was conducted to determine the trajectory of the job satisfaction among workers with physical disabilities, as well as the predictive factors affecting it. …RESULTS: Job satisfaction among workers with physical disabilities increased over time, and there were substantial individual differences in the trajectory of the job satisfaction. The significant predictors for the job satisfaction over the three years were degree of disability, computer usage ability, employment support services, and experience of discrimination. Gender, educational background, interpersonal relationship/organizational adaptability, convenience facilities for the disabled, job suitability, disability acceptability, and self-esteem had a considerable impact on the intercept of the job satisfaction, but not on the slope. CONCLUSION: The findings would inform healthcare providers to establish mid-to-long-term vocational rehabilitation intervention plans that could increase the job satisfaction among workers with physical disabilities. Show more

Keywords: Disabled person, longitudinal study, work satisfaction, attitude, quality of life

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220026

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 625-637, 2023

Authors: Gonzalez, Ariana V. | Eikenberry, Jacob | Griess, Cole | Jaegers, Lisa | Baum, Carolyn M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Individuals released from prisons to community supervision often experience unstable housing, unemployment, substance misuse, mental ill-health, and lack of support systems contributing to high rates of recidivism. Occupational therapy practitioners have distinct value in promoting engagement in new habits and routines to support “occupation,” or development of daily living skills to support community reentry. OBJECTIVE: We developed an occupational therapy (OT) program within a Department of Corrections (DOC) Community Supervision Center in the Midwest United States. The purpose of this study was to determine feasibility and efficacy of an OT program for community reentry. METHODS: …The program was piloted with a sample of five justice-involved men who received OT interventions. Pre- and post-test assessments included a behavioral health interview, demographic survey, five Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) assessments, the Vulnerability Index-Service Prioritization Decision Assistance Tool (VI-SPDAT) and Activity Card Sort-Advancing Inclusive Assessment. Descriptive analyses were performed to determine goal attainment and compare pre- and post-test scores over time and to a reference population (PROMIS). Staff of the DOC were also interviewed to assess perceived feasibility and efficacy of this pilot. RESULTS: Significant health changes were reported in participant self-efficacy, managing emotions, anxiety, and sleep disturbances (1 > SD). Moderate changes were seen in reduced feelings of social isolation (0.5 > 1SD). CONCLUSION: It was feasible to implement an OT program with tailored reentry interventions based on unique needs of criminal justice involved individuals. Initial findings suggest OT offers health promotion benefits to reduce risk of recidivism and prepare individuals for community reentry following incarceration. Show more

Keywords: Community reintegration, criminal justice, life skills, offender intervention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220035

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 639-656, 2023

Authors: Mezian, Kamal | Hrehová, Laura

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Physicians who suffer from poor sleep quality are at an increased risk of mistakes and poor decision-making. We deemed it noteworthy to assess sleep quality in practicing physiatrists, previously reported to be at higher risk of physician burnout, which was documented associated with sleep deprivation. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to estimate the prevalence of sleep disturbance among practicing physiatrists and evaluate the association of sleep quality with their sleep hygiene habits and depression. METHODS: Of the 101 study participants (77 females) who met the inclusion criteria, the majority was between the age of 25 and …40 years (70.3%); 62 (61.4%) were specialists and 39 (38.6%) were in training. In this cross-sectional study, practicing physiatrists were invited to complete an anonymous and voluntary web-based survey. The survey consisted of questions covering demographic information, nicotine and caffeine consumption, exercise habits, and three questionnaires: the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the Sleep Hygiene Index (SHI). RESULTS: Sixty-five (64.4%) respondents showed poor sleep quality (PSQI > 5), and 23 (22.8%) showed at least mild symptoms of depression (BDI-II>13). The mean PSQI, SHI, BDI-II scores were 6.85±3.09, 18.18±5.35, and 8.36±7.52, respectively. Poor sleep quality was significantly positively correlated with symptoms of depression and sleep hygiene misbehavior. CONCLUSION: We found that 64.4% of practicing physiatrists suffered from poor sleep quality, and 22.8% showed at least mild symptoms of depression. Considerable efforts should be directed toward sleep hygiene behavior and mental health improvement. Show more

Keywords: Rehabilitation, sleep, burnout, depression, sleep hygiene

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220050

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 657-666, 2023

Authors: Ganie, Zakeera | Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease is amongst the top three leading causes of mortality in South Africa and the world. The effects of cardiovascular disease can be seen in limitations of function within all spheres of life, including work function. Cardiac rehabilitation programs have been documented to improve functional abilities, however further research is required with regard to activity limitation, participation restrictions, facilitators, and barriers of return to work, after cardiac rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: This qualitative study aimed to determine and explore the barriers and enablers of return to work for individuals with cardiovascular disease who completed a cardiac rehabilitation program …in the Western Cape, South Africa. The qualitative exploration was part of a study that resulted in a return-to-work program for individuals with cardiac disease. METHODS: Qualitative methodology was employed for this study. Semi-structured interviews were used with 10 participants that attended a cardiac rehabilitation program. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data was completed. RESULTS: The participants described the barriers and facilitators of their return-to-work process and the factors that were of critical importance in the resumption of the worker role or the result of unemployment. The four major themes were 1) Cardiac conditions negatively affect function, 2) Being unemployed, 3) Participation in ADLs and lifestyle modification enhances one ’s activity levels, and 4) Return to work . CONCLUSION: Lifestyle modification, vocational rehabilitation and reasonable accommodation were viewed as helpful in enabling a successful return to work after a cardiac incident. Show more

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease, cardiac rehabilitation, vocational rehabilitation, return to work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220065

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 667-678, 2023

Authors: Akcoban, Sumeyye | Yava, Ayla | Koyuncu, Aynur | Tosun, Betul

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: As a result of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, compliance with isolation measures has become challenging. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the individual workload perception and compliance with isolation measures of nurses working in the emergency service and critical care unit during the COVID-19 outbreak. METHODS: This descriptive correlational study was carried out in the emergency service and critical care unit of a public hospital between April 20 and May 20, 2021. A total of 153 nurses working in the emergency service and critical care unit who agreed to participate in the study were included in the …study. RESULTS: Nurses from a state hospital’s emergency department and critical care unit (n  = 153) were included in the study sample. The impression of overall individual workload by nurses and compliance with isolation (r  = 0.153; p  < 0.05) had a positive, weak, and significant relationship. The Isolation Measures Compliance Scale resulted in a mean score of 70.70±5.35. The mean score on the Individual Workload Scale for nurses was moderate (3.22±0.54). CONCLUSION: The low perception of individual workload of nurses working in the emergency service and critical care unit during the COVID-19 pandemic increased the compliance with isolation measures. Show more

Keywords: Emergency nurses, workload, isolation, critical care nurses, pandemic, COVID-19

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220118

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 679-688, 2023

Authors: Liddiard, Katrina J. | Raynor, Annette J. | DeJong, Helen | Brown, Cary A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: People with chronic pain may seek rehabilitation to reduce pain and restore productivity and valued roles. Theoretically, a biopsychosocial approach makes rehabilitation more meaningful, however, the limited research on meaningful rehabilitation predominantly describes the perspective of therapists and researchers. The client’s perspective of meaningfulness in rehabilitation is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the experience of meaningfulness in rehabilitation from the perspective of people with chronic pain. METHODS: Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with Australian adults who had chronic pain and recent experience of occupational therapy or physiotherapy. Sampling continued until thematic saturation occurred. Transcripts were coded …and analyzed using theory-driven and data-driven thematic analysis. RESULTS: Ten participants (four males; six females) were interviewed. Pain histories ranged from nine months to 20+ years, with conditions such as fibromyalgia or trauma. Three themes from a prior concept analysis were upheld, and a further three data-driven themes emerged. Results indicate that people with chronic pain seek a “genuine connection ”; from a therapist who is “credible ”; and can become a “guiding partner ”, and they find rehabilitation meaningful when it holds “personal value ”; is “self-defined ”; and relevant to their sense of “self-identity ”. CONCLUSIONS: The genuine connection and guiding partnership with a credible therapist, that is sought by people with chronic pain, may be at odds with aspects of contemporary rehabilitation. Client-defined meaningfulness is an important construct to engage clients in treatment and improve work and other occupational outcomes for people with chronic pain. Show more

Keywords: Partner, power, pain management, therapeutic alliance, client-centered therapy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220119

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 689-701, 2023

Authors: Fatima, Saman | Ul Abideen, Malik Zain | Siddiqui, Ammar A. | Khan, Faris Farooq Saeed | Gillani, Syed Wasif | Hussain, Muhammad Waqar | Alam, Mohammad Khursheed | Rathore, Hassaan Anwer

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Modern medical education has flourished with an emergent interest in a variety of assessment approaches that entails direct observation of performance and provision of feedback. Workplace-based assessment (WPBA) has been embraced into specialty training in the United Kingdom (UK) within National Health Service (NHS). In Pakistan, this educational framework is incorporated to gauge the clinical proficiency of trainees at the postgraduate and undergraduate levels. The present study was done to identify how WPBA is perceived by dental field postgraduate trainees in Pakistan. OBJECTIVE: The study explored and ascertained trainees’ perceptions, attitudes, and preferences considering their experiences with …the systematic organization and execution of WPBA in dental educational settings. METHODS: This cross-sectional study design involved the clinical trainees of various cadres in a tertiary care hospital in Multan. A structured and validated questionnaire previously used for another analysis was administered among 90 trainees at the institute. The results were analyzed and tabulated using SPSS-21. Influential statistics (Pearson’s Chi-Square Test) was performed and the confidence interval was set at 95% (P ≤0.05). RESULTS: The response rate was 88%. Opinions were more positive compared to the former surveys. The majority of the respondents (65.8%) have shown a positive attitude towards WPBA and preferred it to be a valuable assessment system as it fosters reflective practices in educational settings. In addition, it was shown that WPBA has the potential to improve clinical training (72.2%) and aid in the effective implementation of clinical practice (68.4%). As the system of digital education has been introduced ever since the pandemic, the highest percentage of participants (56%) preferred a combination of on-paper and online assessment systems. CONCLUSION: The study reported that WPBA proposes the opportunity to associate teaching, learning, and assessment. The faculty training program is a significant input to upholding the quality of WPBA. Empirical research on WPBA is essential to be carried out to overcome the inadequacies thus endorsing its application universally. Show more

Keywords: Medical and dental education, attitude, perception, preference, trainees, workplace-based assessment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220132

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 703-710, 2023