Feelings of guilt and OT...

[WCSU1987]

Hi, so since the start of the year we gave lost a few techs. So now I work 40 hrs a week think I am the only 40hr tech. I usually pick up 1 to 2 shifts in a schedule to fill additional holes. Plus we lost techs on all 3 shifts so working variable shifts right now.

Since I started out 24 hrs and couldn't burn vacation time acrued 8 weeks of vacation time. Last month and half haven't acrued any because I maxed out.

Being summer took 5 vacation days...Worked a double off 2 days a night shift off 2 days then weekend off then 1 extra vacation day

Then came back worked a night off for a day then a night shift then a double then 3 eves then off for 2 days

Now working 2 nights but picked up 4 extra hours the 2nd night so doing a 7 to 7 shift

Then off 2 days then back for eves a night off a day a double off then a double

Been getting text left and right lately asking for extra help on shifts and I just don't want to go in. I feel guilty for the patients and staff but I feel I need a break. Then to add on the paranoia with 3 people being let go and reports of back stabbing going on you worry if you don't share the load will you be thrown under the bus.

Anyone deal with similiar feelings?

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

Hi, so since the start of the year we gave lost a few techs. So now I work 40 hrs a week think I am the only 40hr tech. I usually pick up 1 to 2 shifts in a schedule to fill additional holes. Plus we lost techs on all 3 shifts so working variable shifts right now.

Since I started out 24 hrs and couldn't burn vacation time acrued 8 weeks of vacation time. Last month and half haven't acrued any because I maxed out.

Being summer took 5 vacation days...Worked a double off 2 days a night shift off 2 days then weekend off then 1 extra vacation day

Then came back worked a night off for a day then a night shift then a double then 3 eves then off for 2 days

Now working 2 nights but picked up 4 extra hours the 2nd night so doing a 7 to 7 shift

Then off 2 days then back for eves a night off a day a double off then a double

Been getting text left and right lately asking for extra help on shifts and I just don't want to go in. I feel guilty for the patients and staff but I feel I need a break. Then to add on the paranoia with 3 people being let go and reports of back stabbing going on you worry if you don't share the load will you be thrown under the bus.

Anyone deal with similiar feelings?

"No" is a complete sentence. It doesn't sound like your employer can stand to lose a good tech over not picking up extra shifts for awhile. So take a break from it. Also, if you cannot accrue vacation time any more because you're over the limit, look into taking a vacation!

[terfernay]

Don't feel guilty saying no! You have to take care of yourself so you can take care of others. You're not doing your place of employment any good by getting burnt out and quitting because then they'll be down one more staff person so take the time you need to rejuvenate and then come back strong and ready to work.

[amoLucia]

YES YES YES. And ASAP.

And don't let them buffaloe you with any denial. Get it in writing that you'll continue to accrue even with a denial (because otherwise you'll be losing out and be 'cheated by the bean counters).