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Reformulating the Worker Identity: Men's Experiences After Radical Prostatectomy
Wellam F Yu Ko1, John L Oliffe1, Joy L Johnson2
1The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Qualitative Health Research
|January 25, 2019
Summary
Men returning to work after prostate cancer surgery face challenges. This study reveals the need to reformulate worker identity through recovery and renegotiating expectations for a successful return to work.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Occupational Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Increasing number of men in the Canadian workforce diagnosed with prostate cancer.
- Prostate cancer and its treatment significantly impact men's working lives.
- Limited understanding of the return-to-work process post-prostatectomy, especially concerning masculinity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the processes men undergo when returning to work after radical prostatectomy.
- To understand the connection between returning to work and men's masculinities.
- To develop a theory explaining the return-to-work experience for prostate cancer survivors.
Main Methods:
- Constructivist grounded theory approach.
- Individual interviews with 24 male participants who underwent radical prostatectomy.
- Development of the substantive theory: "Reformulating the Worker Identity".
Main Results:
- The theory "Reformulating the Worker Identity" involves two key processes: "recovering after radical prostatectomy" and "renegotiating work expectations."
- "Recovering after radical prostatectomy" focuses on managing side effects and evaluating work readiness.
- "Renegotiating work expectations" highlights strategies for achieving graduated return-to-work accommodations.
- Challenges for full return to work are frequently underestimated by both clinicians and patients.
Conclusions:
- Preoperative discussion and planning for return-to-work challenges can mitigate patient anxiety.
- Addressing the psychosocial aspects of returning to work is crucial for prostate cancer survivors.
- Further research is needed to support men in navigating work post-prostatectomy.