Factors Affecting Return to Work Among OEF/OIF Veterans With Polytrauma

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) identifies employment as a priority issue for
OEF/OIF veterans. However, OEF/OIF veterans with polytrauma represent a new and unique VA
sub-population. Polytraumatic injuries are more complex than injuries sustained in any
previous conflict. Returning to work, therefore, may prove especially challenging. Among
individuals with severe disabilities, employment outcomes are closely tied to the
individual's level of success with Independent Living (IL). IL refers to the ability to
reside in the community and participate in activities of choice by managing available
resources, negotiating barriers and exercising self-determination. IL often is viewed as a
prerequisite to employment for severely disabled individuals, because barriers and
facilitators to independence at home and in the community also influence success in the
workplace. Thus, IL will be a critical first step to pursuing vocational/employment goals
for OEF/OIF veterans with polytrauma. To date, no published studies have investigated IL
among veterans with polytrauma. This pilot study will be the first project in a line of
research to promote the independence and employability OEF/OIF veterans. The goals of the
study are twofold. Goal 1 of the study is to investigate the barriers and facilitators to IL
identified by community dwelling OEF/OIF veterans with polytrauma, caregivers, and IL
service providers, and perceptions of how these factors may affect veterans' return to work.
This goal will be accomplished by using qualitative methods for data collection and
analyses. Qualitative interviewing will be used to elicit the perspectives of veterans with
polytrauma and caregivers living in Florida, and Florida-based Vocational Rehabilitation and
Employment IL service providers. Qualitative data will be coded, and then analyzed using the
constant comparative method. Goal #2 of the study is to evaluate the feasibility of using
the data collection tools and procedures for a future planned study. An efficacy evaluation
will be used to test and refine the data collection tools (interview guides and demographic
checklists). To evaluate data collection procedures, field notes will be recorded and
analyzed to identify optimal organizational procedures and time parameters to minimize
subject burden. Findings will be used to plan and design a large, national study of factors
affecting return to work among OEF/OIF veterans with polytrauma living throughout the United
States. Findings also will be used to develop future proposals to fund longitudinal research
and implementation projects to improve employability outcomes among veterans with
polytrauma.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Diagnosis of OEF/OIF related polytraumatic injuries

Exclusion Criteria:

- Polytraumatic injuries unrelated to OEF/OIF service