P-260 Sickness Absenteeism of Healthcare Workers in a Teaching Hospital in Central Tunisia

Abstract Introduction: Objective To analyze the causes and occupational risk factors of sickness absenteeism in a teaching hospital in Tunisia. Methods This cross-sectional study reviewed data on the sickness absenteeism of healthcare workers (HCW) in a teaching hospitals of central region of Tunisia (Mahdia) during 2022. The study included exhaustively all hospital workers. Data on socio-professionnel (Age, sexe) and occupational factors (job type, ward) and nature of sickness absenteeism were collected. Sickness absence rate (SAR) and absence frequency rate (AFR) in the study period were calculated. Data was gathered from the computerized records of humain ressources. Results During 2022, 775 HCW were on sick leave (64%). During the study period, 2298 sick leave were treated giving a SAR and AFR were 9.12% and 1.08%, respectively. This study included predominantly women (79.29%) aged more than 35 years (79.9%). Nurses accounted for 42.44% of hospital staff. Ordinary sick leaves accounted for 89.7%. HCW worked predominately in Medical departmentsin 21.94%. The multivariate analysis revealed that only the nature of sick leave and Specialty of the prescribing physician were found to be higher risk factors of sick leave duration with an odd ratio respectively of 1.13 and 13.83 (CI= 0.138-2.127, p0.026) and CI= 13.086-14.575, p0.000). Discussion and conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the patterns of sickness absence among HCW in Tunisia, shedding light on an important issue within the healthcare sector. The findings underscore the significant prevalence of sickness absenteeism, particularly among nurses. Further research is needed to delve deeper into the determinants and consequences of sickness absence among HCW.