Absenteeism of nursing staff: decisions and actions of nurse managers

Authors

  • Paulina Kurcgant Universidade de São Paulo; Escola de Enfermagem; Departamento de Orientação Profissional
  • Andrea Rodrigues Passos Universidade de São Paulo; Escola de Enfermagem
  • Juliana Macedo Lima de Oliveira Universidade de São Paulo; Escola de Enfermagem
  • Irene Mari Pereira Universidade de São Paulo; Escola de Enfermagem
  • Taiza Florêncio Costa Universidade de São Paulo; Escola de Enfermagem

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/S0080-623420150000800005

Abstract

Objective Measure absenteeism among nurses and nursing technicians/aides in three hospitals and explore possible management decisions by nursing managers to deal with it. Method Quantitative, qualitative study. In the qualitative stage, monthly rates, annual average and overall rates of absenteeism were measured among nurses and nursing technicians/aides from 12 service units in the hospitals, over 12 months, according to the equation proposed by the Support Center for Hospital Management (NAGEH – Núcleo de Apoio à Gestão Hospitalar). In the qualitative stage, 12 nursing managers from 12 units were interviewed. Results The quantitative stage revealed important differences in each institution and between institutions, with various monthly rates exceeding the monthly rate of 6.7% recommended by the Federal Council of Nursing (COFEN – Conselho Federal de Enfermagem). The qualitative stage examined positive impact decisions taken by these institutions, where relationships with managers, dialogue, and meeting the physical and emotional demands of professionals were considered important factors. Conclusion Absenteeism was a reality in day-to-day nursing staff management. It varied according to the month of the year and in different service units, and it was possible to classify these units according to the degree of the problem. In addition, the results showed that employee illness, dissatisfaction with institutional conditions, and inadequate interpersonal relationships were key factors, enabling management decisions based on each hospital’s particular reality.

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Published

2015-12-01

Issue

Section

Original Articles

How to Cite

Absenteeism of nursing staff: decisions and actions of nurse managers . (2015). Revista Da Escola De Enfermagem Da USP, 49(spe2), 35-41. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0080-623420150000800005