A study on nurse presenteeism is being undertaken by Michelle Freeling, Associate Professor Diane Chamberlain, and Dr Didy Button from Flinders University.
It will look at the impact of nurse presenteeism on Australian nurses, patient safety, and nurse health in high-acuity hospital settings. Nurses are the largest part of the global healthcare workforce at nearly 50%, and the care that they provide directly impacts patient outcomes.
Nurse presenteeism is defined as ‘being present at work when one should not be, relating to problems with health and wellbeing, a stressful work environment, lack of work-life balance, or due to a sense of professional identity or obligation’. It is thought that rates of presenteeism in nursing are high due to the caring nature of the profession, stress related to shift work, and pressure to balance work and personal life. Presenteeism in nursing is associated with increased costs, higher rates of medication errors, increased patient falls and a negative impact on nurse well-being
This research is important to identify the rate and cost of nurse presenteeism in Australia. The link between presenteeism, nurse health, and patient safety will also be investigated. We hope findings can help improve work environments, the health and wellbeing of nurses and the safety of patients.
Researchers are recruiting nurses working in intensive care, operating room or emergency room settings in Australia, who wish to be part of this study. People interested in participating can complete the survey or find more information via the link below:
https://qualtrics.flinders.edu.au/jfe/form/SV_290W5DuEyFaBcrP
