CHEST Guidelines-Association-of-Job-Characteristics-and-Functional-

Association-of-Job-Characteristics-and-Functional-

Pdf Summary

The study "Association of Job Characteristics and Functional Impairments on Return to Work After ARDS" investigates the factors influencing the return to work (RTW) of survivors following acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Despite many ARDS survivors being previously employed, a substantial number face difficulties resuming work post-recovery. The study explored whether a survivor’s pre-ARDS workload, alongside post-ARDS functional impairments, pain, and fatigue, influenced their RTW status after 6 and 12 months.<br /><br />The research was based on a secondary data analysis of the ARDS Network Long-Term Outcomes Study (ALTOS). Participants were evaluated using pre-defined measures from the US Occupational Information Network (O*NET) for workload and SF-36 for assessing functional impairments, pain, and fatigue. The cohort consisted of survivors who were previously employed before ARDS hospitalization. The study excluded individuals with incomplete assessments or those not employed pre-ARDS.<br /><br />Findings indicated that pre-ARDS workload did not significantly affect RTW status. However, survivors with post-ARDS psychosocial or physical impairments were less likely to be employed. Specifically, those experiencing pain or fatigue had significantly lower odds of returning to work. The study highlights that post-recovery impairments and symptoms, rather than previous job workload, predominantly influenced employment outcomes.<br /><br />These insights are crucial for designing effective vocational interventions to support ARDS survivors in achieving better employment outcomes. Addressing both physical and psychosocial impairments along with managing symptoms such as pain and fatigue could be key in helping survivors reintegrate into the workforce. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection and comprehensive management strategies in post-ARDS rehabilitation programs to mitigate the high rates of joblessness among this population.

Keywords

ARDS

return to work

functional impairments

psychosocial impairments

vocational interventions

pain

fatigue

employment outcomes

post-recovery symptoms

rehabilitation programs