Policy changes can encourage ill staff to take sick leave

A study in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found 90% of employees at one long-term care facility violated company policy and went to work despite active symptoms of acute respiratory infection. Although a small study, the authors said its findings suggest a need for better enforcement of work restriction policies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends flexible leave policies and alternate work arrangements limiting contact with others to help prevent the spread of infectious disease in the workplace. Cross-training staff to cover for sick individuals is another policy that can help keep facilities running smoothly. (HealthLeaders Media story, 2/14/20)