Article

PURPOSE: To investigate the experiences and needs with respect to work
participation of employees with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with
anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapy. METHOD: Face-to-face interviews in 14
employees with RA on anti-TNF therapy focused on experiences, offered support and
needs with respect to work participation. RESULTS: Experiences regarding work
participation varied and ranged from fatigue at work, having no job control, not
being understood by the work environment or difficulty dealing with emotions as a
result of interaction within the work environment. Support by health care
professionals for work participation was considered important, especially
concerning social or psychological issues. Advice in becoming aware of one's
changes in abilities was highly appreciated, as was the availability of
professional advice in times of an urgent work issue due to RA. Employees
mentioned an increase in social support at work and job control as important
facilitating factors for work participation. CONCLUSION: Although patients with
RA report improvement in their work functioning after starting anti-TNF therapy,
employees continue facing challenges in working life due to RA. For support
concerning work participation, it is recommended that health care professionals
are more aware of work-related problems in patients with RA treated with anti-TNF
therapy.

Langue : ANGLAIS