Calling out-have bronchitis and don't know what to do

Published

I am an aide and was diagnosed at the ER this morning with bronchitis. When I came back, I put some feelers out about getting someone else to work third shift for me tonight. I just woke up (took a vicodin this morning) and no one has bit. Should I call out? Back in early September I was told by my sup that I need to watch my attendance. I have been out since that talk. Anyway, what do I do? I work on a critical care floor:(

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

If you're sick, you're sick. You won't do your patients any good by spreading germs to them. And you likely would be absolutely miserable.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I've actually wondered about that exact thing myself, because I'm prone to pretty serious cases of bronchitis. It's difficult to get out of bed or do anything - and the coughing fits are absolutely terrible, I'd be a scared pt if my nurse went into coughing fits like I have w/bronchitis. Are hospitals understanding about that sort of thing? Granted, I hope to never have that again as I had no insurance last year & couldn't get antibiotics until I finally paid cash. Last year I was lucky enough that my boss let me work from home, but now that I'll be switching to nursing...not so much a possibility. I hope you feel better!!!!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Well I just called the supervisor. I explained the situation and was told that a) I am the only person scheduled and b) they cannot tell me that I "have" to come in ....so I guess I am going in.....bronchitis and all....

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med-Surg/Peds/O.R./Legal/cardiology.

bluemorningglory, hope you feel better soon! Healthcare settings frown upon calling out and nurses are super-humans who aren't supposed to get sick. Take care of your own behind. They won't....

Up Vote Up Vote ×

ETA: In my OP I said that I had been out since my talk about attendance. That should read that I had not been out. Not once. I am afraid of getting fired. I just wanted them to know that I had been diagnosed with this. I don't want to hear anyone b*tch because I showed up sick. What I find odd is this...they hire a boatload of per diems...why don't they utilize them in cases like these?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in acute care med/surg, LTC, orthopedics.

You said you went to the ER, would a dr's note not cover your ***?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Trauma Surgery, Nursing Management.

Why did they prescribe vicodin? Is this a new Rx or did you take it before?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, Psych, Hospice.
Why did they prescribe vicodin? Is this a new Rx or did you take it before?

I'm wondering the same thing.:confused:

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I have taken vicodin in the past though not recently. I did not ask for it...he gave it to me so that (his words) "I could get some rest"

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Trauma Surgery, Nursing Management.

Oh my...does vicodin make you super sleepy? Do you feel awake and alert enough to go in tonight? I would be very very cautious. I do hope you are feeling better soon. Bronchitis takes forever to clear up, it seems.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I took it in the AM, took a five hour nap, woke up, am feeling ok(cough is still there) but not tired at all. I go in for 11pm.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion