Determining the extent of absenteeism by nurses in De Aar Hospital
Date
2014-03-25
Authors
Hlomela, Nosipho
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Abstract
Absenteeism in hospitals causes an increased workload for nursing
staff members who have to stand in for their colleagues who do not turn up for
work. This leads to poor quality of nursing care and a lack of motivation amongst
nurses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent and reasons for
absenteeism in De Aar Hospital. The study sample included all nursing personnel
(50) within the hospital because of the small number of nurses within the
institution. A descriptive study was conducted using a retrospective review of
personnel records for the period January 2008 - 30 June 2009. In hospitals,
nursing is the largest workforce and has numerous tasks / activities which require
scientific knowledge and technical competence from nursing professionals.
Absenteeism by nurses working in hospitals is a big concern because it
disorganises the work routine, it causes dissatisfaction to workers who are
overburdened by tasks of those who are absent. Absenteeism also lowers the
quality of care for patients.