Views of nurses on causes of absenteeism at selected regional public hospitals of Limpopo Province, South Africa: A qualitative study

Background: Absenteeism is a major problem in many health institutions around the world and an issue that leads to poor service delivery. Globally, absenteeism of professional nurses is alarming, especially in hospitals where patients expect quality service. Absenteeism affects not only the quality of patient care, but also the efficiency of the healthcare institution and the productivity of professional nurses on duty. As such, this study explored and described the views of nurses on the causes of absenteeism at selected public hospitals in Limpopo province, South Africa. Methods: An explorative descriptive design was used to explore and describe the views of nurses on the causes of absenteeism in selected public hospitals in Limpopo Province, South Africa. A nonprobability convenience sampling technique was used for the selection of participants, and semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Data were analysed using Tesch's open-coding method. Results: Management, social, nursing, and work-related factors were the four themes that emerged from the study. Lack of acknowledgement and recognition, unfair and unprofessional practices, burnout and stress, medical conditions and somatization, family challenges and responsibilities, financial challenges, high workload, and an unconducive environment were the subthemes that emerged from the current study. Conclusion : The findings showed that management, social, nurse, and work-related factors played a major role in nurse absenteeism. Consequently, hospital patient care and service delivery were poor. Professional nurses acknowledge and recognition was recommended. Implications: This study can contribute to improving patient care in the department, as absenteeism among nurses will be reduced.