| Description |
Background: Nurses in the U.S. healthcare system face challenges related to workplace culture and the absence of legally mandated paid sick leave, contributing to high rates of presenteeism. This behavior, where nurses work while ill, jeopardizes their health and patient safety. Research shows that access to paid sick leave correlates with increased utilization of preventive care services and improved health outcomes. However, Utah nurses experience additional barriers due to staffing shortages and cultural expectations, emphasizing the necessity for a targeted needs assessment. Local Problem: Utah nurses face pressure to work while sick due to the absence of mandatory paid sick leave, staffing shortages, and a pervasive culture of guilt (HB 69, 2020). Research shows that workers without paid sick leave are significantly less likely to access crucial preventive care services, leading to poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Implementing paid sick leave policies would boost preventive care utilization, enhance overall health, reduce the spread of illness, and improve job satisfaction among nursing staff. Methods: A one-time, anonymous web-based survey was used to assess Utah nurses' attitudes and behaviors regarding paid sick leave. Interventions: This needs assessment investigates the attitudes and perceptions of nurses in Utah regarding their utilization of sick leave, emphasizing how cultural and workplace expectations influence their behaviors. Findings were synthesized into an executive summary to inform stakeholders about policy gaps and opportunities for improvement (Rothstein, 2023a). Results: Using sick leave for acute illnesses was perceived as mutually beneficial for nurses and employers, whereas mental health concerns primarily benefited individuals. Elevated levels of stress about taking sick leave (75%) correlated strongly with presenteeism. Inadequate staffing emerged as one of the barriers to sick leave usage. Conclusion: This needs assessment highlights the urgent need for improved sick leave policies and cultural shifts in Utah's healthcare system. Findings emphasize the importance of separating sick leave from general PTO, addressing staffing shortages, and fostering supportive workplace environments. Evidence-based policies could enhance nurse well-being, reduce presenteeism, and improve patient care quality. |
