As currently used, the RPQ does not meet modern psychometric standards. Its 16 items do not tap into the same underlying construct and should not be summated in a single score. When the RPQ is split into two separate scales, the RPQ-13 and the RPQ-3, each set of items forms a unidimensional construct for people with head injury at three months post injury. These scales show good test-retest reliability and adequate external construct validity.

Objectives. To explore the concept of work instability (WI), a state in which the consequences of a mismatch between an individual's functional abilities and the demands of his or her job could threaten continuing employment if not resolved, in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To develop the Work Instability Scale (WIS). Methods. WI in people with RA was explored through qualitative interviews, which were then used to generate items for the WIS. Results. Through Rasch analysis and validation against a gold standard of expert vocational assessment, a short 23-item, self administered, RA WIS was developed. Conclusion. The WIS can be scored in 3 bands indicating low, medium, and high risk of work disability.

Objective. To develop a new foot impact scale to assess foot status in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using established qualitative methodology and the latest item response techniques (Rasch analysis).

The Nurse-WIS is a psychometrically sound method for the early identification of nursing staff experiencing difficulties at work. It offers the prospect of positive proactive management to prevent or minimize sickness absence and potentially prevent loss of nursing staff from the workforce through long-term sickness absence and early retirement.

Objective: A quarter of stroke survivors are of working age; information about the impact of stroke on those who are working is limited. We investigated the expectations and experiences of stroke survivors in relationship to return to work. Design and participants: This qualitative tudy used semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 13 patients working at onset of cerebrovascular disease. Interviews were conducted between 3 months and 8 years post stroke in order to gain an insight into both individuals' initial expectations and their actual experiences in relation to return to work. Results: Full thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was undertaken, findings reported focus on the data relating to work. Work related sub-themes included continuing symptoms affecting plans to return to work, experiences of returning to work (including uncertainty over timing of return and fears about coping at work), changing job or career and the emotional impact of enforced retirement. Conclusion: Information provision, return to work support systems and potential changes in life roles are important aspects to consider when assessing the impact of stroke and managing the consequences in people of working age.