title: Staging workers' use of hearing protection devices: application of the transtheoretical model.
abstract: The threat of noise-induced hearing loss is a serious concern for many workers. This study explores use of the transtheoretical model as a framework for defining stages of workers' acceptance of hearing protection devices. A secondary analysis was performed using a cross-section of data from a randomized, controlled clinical trial of an intervention to increase use of hearing protection. Use of hearing protection devices was well distributed across the theorized stages of change. Chi-square analysis and analysis of variance revealed significant differences between stages for the variables studied. Discrete stages of hearing protection device use can be identified, laying the foundation for further work investigating use of the transtheoretical model for promoting hearing protection device use. The model can provide a framework for tailoring interventions and evaluating their effects. With further development of the transtheoretical model, nurses may be able to easily identify workers' readiness to use hearing protection devices and tailor training toward that goal.
authors.affiliation: Wayne State University College of Nursing, Detroit, MI, USA.
authors.forename: Delbert M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Raymond
authors.forename: Sally L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Lusk
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000465:Algorithms; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004430:Ear Protective Devices / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006293:Health Promotion; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006317:Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D009785:Occupational Health Nursing; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012648:Self Care / Q000523:psychology