Presenteeism in nursing: a clear and present danger to productivity

Over the last decade, economists have identified that presenteeism, the first cousin of absenteeism, occurs when employees show up for work but, because of mental or medical illness, do not function productively or perform at 100%. Research has begun to identify nursing as an occupational group with high presenteeism. The author discusses the etiology and potential solutions for managing this new component in the productivity equation and in addressing depression, the major contributor to presenteeism.