Exploring Hong Kong nurses’ decision-making processes around presenteeism

Abstract Background Presenteeism among nurses is the common behaviour of being physically present at work when one should not be due to personal health and well-being, a stressful environment, lack work–life balance, or sense professional identity obligation. Aims To explore nurses’ decision-making process related presenteeism in large Hong Kong public hospital. Methods As part larger study on nurse Kong, we conducted focus groups with understand their considerations working sick. Results Eleven major themes emerged from groups, which grouped into three organizational domains reflecting around presenteeism: consideration for colleagues, factors identity. Conclusions was familiar our study. We found both overlap divergence prior research identified. Loyalty written unwritten rules as all seemed encourage nurses. Organizations seeking discourage evaluate policies such sick leave certificates, ensure appropriate coverage ranks address subcultural norms encouraging presenteeism.