Experiences in Treatment, Recovery, and Return-to-Work Following an Acute Cardiac Event Among Firefighters: A...

Heart disease is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide and includes any disease affecting the heart or blood vessels. Stress has been widely cited as a potential factor in the development of heart disease and acute cardiac events. Firefighters may be at a higher risk of developing heart disease and experiencing an acute cardiac event due to the high mental and physical demands of the job. There is limited literature on treatment, recovery, and how to successfully return to this high-stress work environment. This study explored the recovery, treatment, and return-to-work (RTW) process following acute cardiac events experienced by firefighters, with a specific focus on psychological stress and mental health.

We recruited nine firefighters who had an acute cardiac event during their career. Firefighters participated in a semi-structured interview with a critical theory paradigm that explored their experience during treatment, recovery, and RTW. Data were analyzed in a two-reviewer process using thematic analysis.

Thematic analysis revealed four major themes: (1) there is a lack of consideration of what it means to be a firefighter during treatment and recovery; (2) mental health difficulties are overlooked and a major barrier to recovery and RTW; (3) mental and physical illness stigma within the fire organization impedes a successful recovery and RTW; and (4) social support is critical to a successful recovery and RTW.

The results of this study highlighted a pressing need for formalized fire-specific treatment, recovery, and return-to-work processes to ensure a successful return.