Presenteeism and its relationship with resilience among pre-hospital emergency technicians: a multicenter cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Presenteeism is when individuals despite experiencing illness or discomfort that necessitates rest and absence from work, still attend their jobs. This type of presence poses challenges for both the individual and the organization. Among the strategies for adapting to and coping with workplace challenges is resilience. The present study aims to determine presenteeism and its relationship with resilience among pre-hospital emergency technicians for the first time in Iran.

METHODS

This cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational, multicenter study was conducted between June and August 2024. The study population comprised all pre-hospital emergency technicians employed at 295 urban, road, and aerial pre-hospital emergency bases across 9 regions and 16 counties in Tehran Province, the capital of Iran. A total of 2,450 technicians were working at these bases. A proportional stratified random sampling method was used based on the number of bases and technicians in each region. Data were collected using the electronic version of the Stanford Presenteeism Scale, Emergency Medical Services Resilience Scale, and a demographic characteristics section. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS software version 28, at a significance level of P ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

Out of 500 pre-hospital emergency technicians who received the questionnaire link, 432 completed the survey. The participants' mean presenteeism score was 18.69 ± 4.98, indicating a moderate level. Their mean resilience score was 124.42 ± 14.02, reflecting a high level of resilience. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between presenteeism and the dimensions of resilience. The strongest correlation was found between presenteeism and the dimension of job motivation (r = 0.435, p < 0.001). The roles of presenteeism, shift scheduling based on technician preference, and mandatory overtime were confirmed as predictors of resilience.

CONCLUSION

Most of the study participants exhibited a moderate level of presenteeism and a high level of resilience. Personnel with higher levels of resilience are likely to have greater capacity and ability to perform their duties despite experiencing illness. So, efforts should focus on enhancing staff resilience and providing organizational support during periods of illness.