I agree that a referral to a neuropsychologist could give some clear data whether any cognitive functioning is related to a neurological event. We had had some success in demonstrating issues in employees with MS who were otherwise in denial or unaware of their own cognitive deficits. The report was paid for by the hospital and allowed someone to be supported and the other to move into an area of low risk but who eventually ill health retired when it was proved that even that was too problematic for them.
HOWEVER, when people have pre-existing and unmanaged performance issues and these are essentially unchanged it is disingenuous for an employee to medicalise it. What are the issues - if memory, information processing, concentration, or unprovoked and previously unseen bouts of temper then perhaps her GP needs to know about them to see if there is something there.
However, even if there is a relationship, you can only do so much in the workplace for memory etc. The unacceptable behaviour is still unacceptable NO MATTER THE CAUSE and it must be managed as such. I would also ask if it was so unacceptable why was nothing done before.
Cannot have cake and eat it too and stay slim.....
Susan Gorton | OH Nurse Manager | Occupational Health Department | Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust | Level 3, Ormond House, 26-27 Boswell St., London WC1N 3JZ |020 7405 9200 Ext 0247 | DD to OHD 020 78138554 | Direct Fax 020 78138355 | Mobile 07833294568
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ADVANCED NOTICE - I will be on annual leave from 8th March until 4th April 2013
-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Rachel
Sent: 04 March 2013 08:33
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [OCC-HEALTH] Cognitive testing following stroke
Hi All
I wonder if anyone can advise me. I have a difficult case girl in late 30's had a stroke end of 2011 unconscious for 4 weeks. Made good recovery returned to work April 2012. Phased back into role however at this time consultant report very vague and gp advice fit to return to work. The only continuing issue she had were mild seizures/short absences. She is now on medication denies any side effects and has not had a seizure since December. This girl pre absence was always quite argumentative with colleagues and not the best performer. She denies any issues with her performance and although admits if she won the lottery she would not work feels she is able to perform her role without any problems.
The company are asking whether her poor performance could be due to her condition and whether whilst performance managing her we should carry out some cognitive testing? Any suggestions would be gratefully received and how to access such testing would be brilliant.
Thanks in anticipation.
Rachel
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