Return to work in persons with persistent postconcussion symptoms: a survey study examining the perspectives of employees and managers

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective To examine challenges in return to work (RTW) for persons with persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCS) experienced by the affected employees and their managers. Methods A survey of employees (S-E) and two surveys of managers (S-M1, S-M2) executed 4 months apart to capture the time perspective. Inclusion: Adults aged 18–66 with PPCS > 4 weeks, employed at the time of mTBI who returned to work within the previous year. Managers involved in their RTW process. Outcome measures Work status, working hours, work functioning (Work Role Functioning Questionnaire, WRFQ), work productivity. Results Ninety-two employees and 66 managers were recruited. Three-fourths of the employees had returned to work but only one-third worked under similar conditions. Weekly working hours decreased from 36,3 hours (SD = 10,5) before mTBI to 17,6 hours (SD = 9,7). Employees had difficulties with tasks 43% of time (WRFQ). They needed more breaks, struggled with multitasking and work speed. About 65.9% experienced affected work productivity. Managers reported lack of knowledge and difficulties assessing the number of working hours and suitable tasks. Conclusions Most employees returned to work but only a minority worked under similar conditions as before mTBI. Employees and managers struggled to estimate workload. The affected employees and their workplaces need a long-term RTW support.