Qualitative case studies of professional-level workers with traumatic brain injuries: A contextual approach to job accommodation and retention

Richard T. Roessler, Phillip D. Rumrill, Stuart P. Rumrill, Deborah L. Minton, Deborah J. Hendricks, Elaine Sampson, Callista Stauffer, Marcia J. Scherer, Amanda Nardone, Anne Leopold, Karen Jacobs, Eileen Elias

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a multi-systemic disability that causes a wide range of difficulties with personal and social functioning. METHODS: Four individuals with TBI participated in an evaluation of barriers to their continued employment following graduation from college. A trained interviewer completed the Work Experience Survey (WES) in teleconsultation sessions with each participant. RESULTS: Researchers applied a qualitative case study research design. Participants reported a wide range of difficulties in performing essential functions of their jobs (3 to 24) that have the potential to significantly affect their productivity. Career mastery problems reflected outcomes associated with TBI such as 'believing that others think I do a good job' and 'having the resources (e.g., knowledge, tools, supplies, and equipment) needed to do the job.' Indicative of their wish to continue their current employment, participants reported high levels of job satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: The WES is a cost-effective needs assessment tool to aid health and rehabilitation professionals in providing on-the-job supports to workers with TBI.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)3-14
Number of pages12
JournalWork
Volume58
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2017

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
The contents of this article were developed under a grant from the National Institute on

Publisher Copyright:
© 2017-IOS Press and the authors.

Keywords

  • Traumatic brain injury
  • job retention
  • needs assessment
  • workplace accommodations

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Rehabilitation
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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