[incublissRN]

Has anyone that works nights called in sick because they hadn't had enough sleep? I've been up since 5:30 am and I usually nap before I go in and I can't relax. I feel tired but can't fall asleep. I have the fan on to block out noise, it's dark in my room, and I drank some milk.

I just have a lot on my mind and don't know what to do! The more I worry about being tired the more I can't sleep. I'm seriously thinking about calling in.

Any thoughts?

[beckersSN]

I think something must be going around... I live in Lafayette and for some reason I could not sleep at all last night either! I felt really crazy last night... restless, uncomfortable, too hot even though it was cold inside. I was up all night and finally slept for about half an hour before I had to be to work. I'm only just starting nursing school this fall though so I still work a job that isn't that important. I don't think it would be unreasonable for you to call in. what if you make a mistake later on in your shift because you do start to get tired.

[JohnBearPA]

I would consider calling in sick if I knew I couldn't work effectively all night. I've worked double shifts, three days in a row, and had to call in sick the following shift because I was so overtired I just couldn't get to sleep. I feel that to be effective, you need rest, so consider calling in sick, it's better than making a huge mistake in meds or putting residents lives at risk. I'd be calling soon tho, so they can replace you. Best of luck!

[sonicnurse2b]

If you feel as if you are dangerously tired ... I would call in - you could make a mistake on meds

[incublissRN]

Thanks for the responses. I decided to call in. I'm afraid I'd make a med error. My sleeping schedule is all wrong...the longer I work nights the worse it gets! I need to straighten it out pronto.

I always feel guilty when I call in sick but the thought of making another med error because I'm tired scares me to death.

[kizzykatlove]

i was going to say call in.. we need mental health days once in awhile... i know i do...

[teeituptom]

Yes I have called in for mental health days and even golf days

who needs more mental than I do

no one needs more golf that I do

[Roy Fokker]

I'd call in.

And in the meantime, I advise you to hurry to a bookstore and buy yourself a copy of this; pronto. I tell you, if works better than Ambien!





cheers,

[deeDawntee]

Hi,
I agree with what everyone has said, definitely call in if you haven't slept, it is too dangerous. Have you tried Benadryl or Melatonin? You may consider a sleeper from your Doc, there's that new one out there that doesn't cause dependence (Rozerim, I believe). Especially if this happens only occasionally.

I've worked nights for years and honest to God, sleep becomes the most important thing in my life!! Gotta get enough.

can't be doing this at work!!!

[incublissRN]

My doctor did give me a one time prescription for Ambien when I switched to nights in November. I see her again at the end of the month and will have to ask for some more. Maybe if I use it more regularly I will able to sleep when I need to!