Return to work after occupational and non-occupational lower extremity amputation

Background

Factors impacting on return to work (RTW) after lower extremity amputation are important in occupational rehabilitation.

Aims

Our objective was to compare RTW in patients who had traumatic work-related amputation with amputations from other causes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with participants employed at the time of amputation and at least 1 year post-discharge from amputee rehabilitation. The primary outcome measure was RTW.

Results

One hundred and forty-seven amputees were included with 69% returning to work. Amputation reason did not impact on RTW (odds ratio [OR] 1.83, P = non-significant). Trans-femoral amputees were less likely to RTW (OR 0.22, P < 0.05). Years since amputation (OR 1.20, P = 0.001) and Reintegration to Normal Living Index (OR 1.05, P < 0.001) were predictive of RTW after adjusting for other covariates.

Conclusions

Amputation aetiology did not impact on RTW. Years since amputation, level of amputation and Return to Normal Living Index were associated with RTW which may be important to consider in RTW prognosis and planning.

Physical assessment in the community pharmacy

As pharmacists continue to define their role in the health care system of the future and implement pharmaceutical care, they will need new or enhanced skills in managing patient care cost-effectively. Their ability to perform basic physical assessments will be a vital tool in managing their patients' health status. By using the SOAP method of evaluation and plan development and by using a systematic approach to obtaining physical data, pharmacists can properly perform initial assessment and monitor the patients they now serve. This enhanced level of care will be well accepted by patients and other health care team members when pharmacists provide them in a professional manner and serve as partners with these practitioners in developing and managing appropriate care plans.