The RIGHT way to call in...

[RNAchot83]

Hi All,

So i've been working for an ambulatory care facility for almost 3 months now. Over the weekend I felt extremely ill...rotating between decongestants..I now know I have a sinus infection. As this is a relatively new job I was wondering, what is the right way of calling in sick? And do you give details of your illness? I called in on Sunday evening knowing I was going to the doc's office on Monday and now had to call in again as the doctor told me I will be contagious tomorrow as well. I absolutely hate being sick and even more, calling in sick.

But what is the right way to call in? And what do you say? I feel that maybe if you give too many details the boss wont believe you.... there are so many employees out there that call and play 'hookie' so its hard to tell whether the boss thinks you are telling the truth. I do have a doctor's note but is this enough when I return to work?

Thanks!

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

As far as the "right way" to call out (when to call, whom to call, etc.), the safest bet is to follow the facility's policy for calling out--if you do that you can't go wrong.

AFAIK you do not need to provide them with details of your illness, though the have every right to request that you provide a doctor's note verifying that you were ill. That note should cover you.

IMO, in your case, I think all that you have to tell them is that you are under your PCP's care for a sinus infection (or if your prefer not to share the illness, just say that you are under their care), that you will return when your PCP allows you to and that you will fax/bring a sick note. They don't need to know the graphic details.

Hope you feel better soon!

[RedhairedNurse, BSN, RN]

When I call, which I very seldom, I say "I'm sick and won't be in this morning." I don't give any details at all.