Should I feel guilty not picking up shifts after I had my wisdom teeth extracted?

[mstpeter]

Hi Everyone!

I am a fairly new employee at my place of work (6+ months) and a little over 48hrs ago I had my 4 wisdom teeth surgically removed under general anesthesia. I still wake up several times a night due to discomfort and I am still eating minced-consistency foods. My work has called me a few times wanting me to come into work but I have denied because I am not healed yet (they are aware of my wisdom tooth extraction). I still talk funny due to the swelling. My co-workers have a tendency to call in sick quite often (especially on the weekends/Monday morning) and I usually pick up shifts often because I like to be a team player and help out. But since I've had to say "no" the past couple times, I've felt really guilty. Should I feel this way? I am scheduled to return to work in a few more days to allow myself to heal a little more, should I feel pressured to return to work beforehand?

Thank-you!

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

Stay home until your planned return to work date. Do not feel guilty. You're not even obligated to answer the phone. I hope you feel better soon.

[chare]

You should never feel guilty for not going in to work extra, when called; especially as Ruby Vee stated, when you are ill.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

You have to take care of you first. If you need time to heal, then don't feel guilty. If you need time to yourself or to spend with family/friends, don't feel guilty for saying no. Sometimes, saying no is the best option.

[Wolf at the Door, BSN]

WHAT ?

[Gr4ceffa, CNA]

No, mstpeter, you should not feel obligated to return to work when you still do not feel back to your normal self again. Not only is it not safe for you, but potentially not safe to make decisions for your patients, as well. Best of luck to you! Hope you feel better.