Vocational outcome following spinal cord injury

Non-experimental (ex post facto) survey research design involving the use of a fixed alternative format questionnaire.

To investigate variables influencing vocational outcome, to identify barriers to gaining and sustaining employment and to identify the effects of variables on the type of work engaged in following spinal cord injury. The two sets of independent variables considered were, individual and injury-related factors (age at onset of injury, time since injury, extent/level of injury, highest educational qualification achieved pre-injury, and pre-injury occupation) and circumstantial factors (means of transport, access difficulties, perceived workplace discrimination, financial disincentives to work and perceived level of skill).

The Princess Alexandra Hospital Spinal Injuries Unit, Queensland, Australia.

Data on the variables and the vocational outcomes of having ever worked or studied post-injury, current employment status and post-injury occupation were obtained from survey responses. Demographical and medical data were gathered from medical records.

Forward stepwise logistic regression revealed that having ever worked or studied post-injury was associated with all individual and injury-related factors except pre-injury occupation, and two circumstantial factors, namely means of transport and access difficulties. Current employment was associated with all circumstantial factors as well as age at injury and pre-injury occupation. Standard multiple regression analyses revealed that post-injury occupation was correlated with all individual and injury-related factors as well as means of transport and perceived workplace discrimination.

Tailored rehabilitation programs for individuals with characteristics associated with less successful vocational outcomes may facilitate their employment status after injury.