Methods and tools used by healthcare professionals to identify barriers to return-to-work for workers with upper extremity conditions in Australia. (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Peters, Susan E; Johnston, Venerina
• Is Part Of: Hand therapy. Volume 22:Number 1(2017)
• Page Start: 26
• Page End: 34
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: Assessment -- work disability -- occupational health -- workers' compensation -- risk factors; Hand -- Wounds and injuries -- Treatment -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Hand -- Wounds and injuries -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 617.57506
• DOI: 10.1177/1758998316665058
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-9983

Abstract

Introduction: Healthcare professionals, including hand therapists, are frequently called upon to identify barriers to return-to-work for workers with upper extremity injuries. However, the methods and tools used to assess barriers to return-to-work remain unknown. Results from these assessments can be used to direct appropriate interventions for those who may be at risk of a prolonged work absence. Methods: The purpose of this study was to identify the tools and methods used by healthcare professionals to assess barriers to return-to-work for workers with upper extremity conditions. A total of 596 Australian healthcare professionals responded to an open-ended question regarding the tools/methods they use to identify barriers to return-to-work. All responses were coded and analysed descriptively. Differences between professional disciplines were recorded. Results: Healthcare professionals nominated 59 types of tools and methods that they use to identify barriers to return-to-work for workers with upper extremity conditions in their clinical practice. The most favoured method was clinical interviewing. Other commonly used tools were clinical measures, e.g., strength, and a return-to-work risk-factor screening tool validated on musculoskeletal diagnoses, the Orebro Musculoskeletal Screening Questionnaire. Discussion: Healthcare professionals use a variety of methods and tools to identify barriers to return-to-work for workers with upper extremity conditions. Generally, they favoured subjective methods. Future research is needed to develop or validate assessment tools designed to identify barriers to return-to-work for workers with upper extremity conditions. In the absence of upper extremity specific screening tools, hand therapists should consider the biopsychosocial framework when evaluating barriers to return-to-work.