Understanding and meeting the needs of farmers with amputations.
BACKGROUND
Despite the hazardous nature of the occupation, farmers who sustain serious permanently disabling injuries return to the physical labor of production agriculture. It is estimated that amputations account for 11% of all major farm-related injuries.


OBJECTIVE
This report describes the process of reentry to farm work of farmers across the United States who experienced above-the-wrist traumatic amputations.


METHODS
Interviews with 16 farmers revealed the unique features of the work and world view of these workers who labor in the fields.


RESULTS
The occupational recovery process included questioning, analyzing, and "getting along." Prostheses and formal rehabilitation programs were viewed as minimally helpful. Suggestions and resources that may be helpful for the orthopaedic nurse to assist this high-risk work group are included.
Reed
Deborah
D
University of Kentucky, USA.
D000062:Accidents, Occupational / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000383:Agriculture / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000673:Amputation, Traumatic / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D001186:Artificial Limbs / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology; D001294:Attitude to Health; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007629:Kentucky / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D024802:Nurse's Role; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D016530:Orthopedic Nursing; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012307:Risk Factors; D012647:Self-Assessment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation