Returning to work after acquired brain injury: A mixed method case study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Vocation is a meaningful area of rehabilitation after Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). There is a discrepancy between the number of individuals with an ABI who feel able to work and those who are employed in Ireland. Research suggests that Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) programs enhance Return to Work (RTW) outcomes after ABI, however existing literature is limited. OBJECTIVE: This study explores the experience of engaging in VR post ABI, and its impact upon work self-efficacy. METHODS: A mixed methods case study design was selected to represent the individuality of ABI presentations. Participants completed a qualitative interview at VR follow up (N = 2) and the Work Self-Efficacy Inventory at pre/post VR. RESULTS: Four overarching themes emerged including Stigma, Adjustment, Support and Readiness. RTW challenges included fatigue, accepting support, adjusting to work and stigma. RTW benefits included routine, pride in work, skills development, and empowerment. Wilcoxon signed rank indicated that work self-efficacy scores mildly improved post VR. CONCLUSIONS: This research may inform VR Programs and offers pragmatic clinical implications based on the data. Future research should consider the role that readiness plays in facilitating RTW. Limitations include sample size, a lack of longitudinal data and control group.