Nursing is a vital part of the health care delivery system, but managers of health care
facilities worldwide are increasingly asked to “do more with less”. Nurses are under
increasing work pressure and this often manifests in stress and conflict at work and
possible absenteeism. Very few researchers have focussed on the patterns of
absenteeism among different demographics, length of service and occupational
strata. The main question this research seeks to answer is: what is the extent and
costs of absenteeism amongst nurses and do seniority, length of service and
demographic factors matter at Groote Schuur hospital (GSH). Confined to a period
of two years, 2012 to 2013, this study draws on a data set of about 1,635 nurses in
order to provide a more accurate analysis of sick leave trends showing occupational
levels, gender, age, and race.
Nurses at GSH are predominantly female and almost 55% of the workforce is
classified as “Coloured”. African nurses in general are younger than the Coloured,
White and Indian nurses. The research shows that the nurses in age category 60-66 in
fact have a better attendance record; but the data shows there is no overall
correlation between years of service and absenteeism. The study suggests that
contrary to assumed views, absenteeism is well managed at GSH.