Article

The purpose of the study is to identify domains of influence on
co-workers' ability to be supportive of returning worker during the work
reintegration (WR) process. METHODS: An ethnographic study design was chosen
involving fieldwork at four different workplaces, at an emergency care service, a
waste disposal company and at two nursing homes.
Qualitative methods for inquiry
were used including participant observation, individual- and group interviews of
30 participants. Data were coded and analysed according to a grounded theory
approach. RESULTS: Four themes were identified related to domains of influence on
co-workers' ability to be supportive of returning worker during the WR process:
(1) organisation of work and level of interaction; (2) disruption of work
routines, (3) relationship with returning worker and (4) attitudes towards sick
leave. CONCLUSION: The WR process after long-term sick leave is not only
influenced by the WR's arrangements made, but also by the co-workers' responses
to the process. Work arrangements not only affect the returning worker's ability
to return-to-work (RTW) successfully, but also the co-workers' ability to be
supportive and their ability to take active part in the process. Implications for
Rehabilitation The process of WR after long-term sick leave involves interaction
with co-workers. Domains of influence is in the co-workers' perspective
influencing their ability to be supportive during reintegration of a returning
worker. Future WR management could benefit from integrating the conditions for
co-worker support. We encourage co-workers to be involved in the RTW planning,
monitoring and evaluation with particular focus on how the WR arrangements are
influencing their work and their ability to be supportive.

Langue : ANGLAIS