Why Do Registered Nurses Work When Ill?

Abstract

The authors discuss results of a study that found a sense of tension in the nurse and between the supervisor and the team that influenced the decision to come to work when ill. The tension with the supervisor was around reporting and legitimizing illness; with the team, around responsibility, staffing concerns, and peer pressure; and in the nurse was associated with community perception, work ethic, and financial security. Together, nurse administrators and clinicians should conduct reviews of policies and procedures to build cohesive relationships and promote the self-care practices of nurses.