Calling in sick

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  • I never call in. But I've had to this week and I feel guilty when I shouldn't. Came down with some viral something last weekend and just can't seem to get over it. Didn't see doctor because nothing can be done other than wait it out. Feeling somewhat better then woke up during the night with a slight fever. Checked with charge nurse and while I could manage to work today, I can't per policy.

  • So why do I feel guilty? I hate leaving my shift (I JUST moved to days) shorthanded but policy states fever free for 24 hours with no meds needed. :/

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Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.

No, you should not feel guilty for calling in when you're legitimately too ill to be at work.

Hope you feel better soon!

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

never feel guilty. It is what it is. feel better

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Thanks ya'll. It my heart I know I shouldn't be around patients (or staff) if I have had a fever. But I feel guilty for leaving my shift mates short :/

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Went into doc to get work release for tomorrows shift. Came home with a steriod shot to the bum and omnicef. Guess it's not all in my head : )

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

I hope you feel better soon! You'd have something to feel guilty about if you went in and exposed your colleagues/pts.

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Specializes in Med Surg.

The only reason you have a problem calling in sick is because so many of your coworkers call in when they are NOT sick. This leads to everyone being under suspicion.

If you are well, go to work. Sick, stay home.

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Specializes in Acute Mental Health.

Thank you for not going in and spreading it to everyone! I try to run away from my coworkers who come into work and tell me how sick they are. Go home, stay home! Be well.

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You need a healthy body to take care of your patients. They do not want you sharing those germs. Do not feel guilty!!

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Specializes in Peds Hem, Onc, Med/Surg.

It's nice that it's in your policy. We don't have anything like that. I called in last week because I was throwing up. I felt guilty but what kind of nurse would I be if I showed up to work and couldn't keep my stomach contents to myself? lol It happens! That's why hospitals have flex teams or floaters ;)

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Just remember, you saved pts and coworkers from getting sick also!

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We are a small rural hospital. No floaters, etc. Went back today and amazingly enough, the world had kept turning. Coworkers ask if I was feeling better and that was it! (one small jab from someone who was getting a sore throat but it was in jest: ) Unless the powers that be have something to say later on, it was stress for nothing.

Thanks for everyone being so sweet :)

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