Table 1 Step 2. Matrix for injured worker: What does the injured worker need to do to return to work?
Performance Objectives(worker) | Attitudes/Beliefs/Emotions | Knowledge | Skills/self-efficacy | Expected outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Keeps active despite pain and attempts RTW on modified work | Not fearful of re-injury | Understands difference between hurt and harm pain | Avoids passive coping | Demonstrates activity despite pain (avoidance of pain behaviours) and returns to modified work duties |
Minimizes sitting or lying down | Positive attitude that avoiding sitting and lying will speed recovery | Â | Â | Avoids excessive sitting/lying down |
Uses medication to control pain | Belief that medication can help with pain while returning to work | Learns coping/pacing strategies to control symptoms | Takes medication appropriately | Takes medication/performs exercise to reduce pain |
Focus on function rather pain | Belief that the pain will subside. Has positive expectation | Understands the natural history of condition | Use proper body mechanics | Â |
Co-operates with RTW co-coordinator/employer/supervisor | Trust in RTW coordinator | Â | Â | Avoids delay in RTW |
Communicates with workplace re: job concerns | Belief that has a say in RTW process. Belief that employer will listen and understand concerns and is supportive | Learns how to make workplace safe | Develops sense of control at work. Can adapt/change situations at work. | Does not wait until 100% to RTW. Accepts reasonable RTW plan |
Communicates with Health Care Providers | Belief that he/she is ready to RTW | Â | Â | Avoids delays in RTW with minimal and safe RTW restrictions |