The impact of COVID-19 on healthcare workers’ absenteeism: infections, quarantines, sick leave — a database analysis of the Antoni Jurasz University Hospital No. 1. in Bydgoszcz, Poland

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic through its impact on healthcare workers (HCWs) could result in possible disturbances in the stability of providing medical services. This paper aimed to analyse the influence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on HCWs regarding their absenteeism and availability to work. Materials and methods: An analysis of the Antoni Jurasz University Hospital No. 1. in Bydgoszcz database was conducted regarding the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections and quarantines of HCWs and the number of HCWs on sick leave for the period between the 1st of October 2020 and the 28th of February 2021. The population was analysed regarding occupational groups (doctors, nurses, administrative and technical workers, other medical staff members) and in the context of regional epidemiological trends. Results: Infection and quarantine rates were higher in HCWs than in the general population with nurses and doctors being the most affected groups. A significant increase in the number of HCWs on sick leave in 2020/2021 was observed in comparison with 2019/2020. Conclusions: Healthcare workers are a group significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability of workforce in the hospital has been impacted both directly (infections, quarantines) and indirectly (sick leave). Further studies in the area of HCWs’ security are needed.