Predictors of employment status after cardiac surgery
B. A. Stanton, C. D. Jenkins, P. Denlinger, J. A. Savageau, R. M. Weintraub and R. L. Goldstein
Preoperative predictors of postoperative employment status were studied in
228 patients (aged 25 to 64 years) who underwent cardiac surgery. Of the
150 patients working in the year before surgery, 73% returned within six
months. Of those not so employed, 18% started working. Patients who
expected preoperatively to return to work did so at an 82% rate compared
with 39% of the others. This was a strong predictor in the multiple
regression analysis. Educational level and family income were stronger
predictors than occupation or level of physical exertion required. Rates of
return were higher in patients with less severe angina and less fatigue
preoperatively, but did not differ significantly by sex, surgical
procedure, or duration of illness. Seven variables predicted work status
correctly for 86% of persons. These results suggest that determinants of
return to work are largely present before surgery and that patients'
attitudes and expectations play an important role.
