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

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.