Empowering employees with chronic diseases: process evaluation of an intervention aimed at job retention

Purpose Employees with a chronic disease may experience work-related problems that contribute to the risk of job loss. We developed a group-based intervention programme aimed at clarifying problems, making these a subject of discussion at work, and realizing solutions. This process evaluation investigates the intervention's feasibility and the satisfaction of 64 participants in eight groups. Methods Data were collected through process evaluation forms and self-report questionnaires. Results The recruitment of participants was time-consuming. Highly educated women working in the service sector were overrepresented. The programme was administered as planned, although components were sometimes only discussed briefly, due to lack of time. Satisfaction with the overall programme among participants was high; it was perceived as effective and there were only three dropouts. In particular, the focus on feelings and thoughts about having a chronic disease was highly valued, as were the exchange of experiences and role-playing directed at more assertive communication. Conclusions A vocational rehabilitation programme aimed at job retention is feasible and is perceived to be effective. Such a programme should address psychosocial aspects of working with a chronic disease beside practical problems. The recruitment of participants is time-consuming. Cooperation with outpatient clinics is necessary in order to reach all groups of employees with a chronic disease that might benefit from job retention programmes. Trial registration: ISRCTN77240155

Bladder dysfunction after repeat laparoscopic uterine nerve ablation (LUNA)

The authors report a case of voiding dysfunction with reduced sensation and areflexia 13 months after a repeat LUNA due to pelvic nerve injury. Anatomic distortion and increased vascularity were likely contributing factors. Repeat procedures may expose patients to a risk of such injury due to anatomic distortion.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/45904/1/192_2005_Article_BF01961846.pd