When the management of nurse absenteeism becomes a cause of absenteeism: a study based on a comparison of two health care facilities

Aim The study aims to explore perceptions of the causes of nurse absenteeism. Background Nurse absenteeism is rising in many countries. However, there is little evidence as to how strategies adopted in order to cushion the effects of absenteeism on workload influence absenteeism itself. Method The study used a `qualitative' method based on cognitive mapping techniques in order to represent perceptions about absenteeism graphically. The study was conducted in two health-care facilities with a sample of 55 interviewees. Results Absenteeism is due in part to strategies adopted in order to cushion the effects of absenteeism on organisations. Furthermore, the strategies are self-legitimising. The more they are used, the more they are regarded as normal and useful. Conclusions A plan to reduce absenteeism among nurses must explicitly take into account the strategies used to cushion its impact. Implications for nursing management To cushion the effects of absenteeism among caregivers, managers must make trade-offs that take into account, for example, the workload or disruption linked to the substitution of personnel.