Should I call off?

[Rocktheman]

I am a BSN student working at a nursing home since June as a CNA. I have never called off from work for being sick until now, and am only consciously thinking so because this is my first healthcare related job. Anyways I am working 2nd shift tomorrow. I am achy, coughing, sneezing, have a headache and a fever of 99.8 (or close to a fever). There are a lot of sick people at the facility currently, both patients and staff. I am unsure of my ability to work effectively, and really don't want to spread it around. Is calling off okay? I don't want to be a sissy or anything, but I am sure if I go to work in my current state, I will infect someone. I'm gonna wait till tomorrow morning to be sure, but I'm not sure where to go on this.

Thanks for any help you can give.

[klone, MSN, RN]

I don't want to be a sissy or anything, but I am sure if I go to work in my current state, I will infect someone.

If that's the case, do you really need to ask?

I had to send one of our MAs home today. Influenza is rampant in our clinic right now, and even though she FELT okay (after 4 days being very sick) she was coughing up a storm. You have to think of your coworkers and patients, if not for yourself.

[Rocktheman]

The flu is bad this year. Like really bad. The one hall I was working on has 12 patients, 8 had an URI of some sort, either flu or progressed to pneumonia.

[forgivenfaith119]

If you are sick, call out and get an excuse note from your doctor. There is no need to feel bad. You need to take care of yourself.

[abbnurse]

There are a lot of sick people at the facility currently, both patients and staff.

Same here. So many staff have been out sick during the past month or so; their children have been sick too, it's been one of the worst "cold and flu seasons" I can remember.

Sounds like you're sick & need to take care of yourself.....stay home ! I hope you feel better soon

[sallyrnrrt, ADN, RN]

if you are sick, call off asap, giving mgt. greater time to find replacement

[Wave Watcher]

It is hard to give good quality patient care if you don't take care of yourself. Stay home. Get rest. Go see your doctor if temp rises or symptoms persist. I would ask if you had your flu shot but we all know it doesn't mean much this flu season.

Feel better and let go of the guilt. You feel bad enough already. Hugs.

[L♡vER]

CALL! No one wants your cooties No guilt either Mister.

[OrganizedChaos, LVN]

If you even gave it a thought, then call in.

[iPink, BSN, RN]

Q: Should I call off?

A: Yes

Get well soon.

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

That's what sick days are for!

You can't take care of anyone properly if you haven't taken care of yourself.

[Rocktheman]

Should I call in tonight? I feel like that's too early.