Will I get fired for being absent too long d/t unexpected surgery? I need advice

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I had an abscess that was drained on my hand in august (developed unexpectedly during my first week of classroom orientation) and couldn't work for 3 shifts during my orientation due to infection control policy (if I have an open wound and it is still draining=no work). The abscess came back in the middle of December and I was scheduled to see a hand specialist the following week. Due to certain circumstances (insurance wise); I was referred to another specialist. Luckily, the abscess burst unexpectedly (probably r/t when the specialist was pinching the abscess) the following day and I was able to see the other specialist right away (my original appointment was scheduled the end of January). The specialist made an incision, drained it, and packed it. Furthermore, I had the option of getting hand surgery which involved irrigation and debridement. I had to miss 3 shifts again d/t infection control policy and the infection control nurse recommended getting the surgery since it's so near the joint (near the thumb) and the risk of possibly developing osteomyletis. Also, I knew I was going to miss more shifts due to the draining and I really didn't want the abscess to develop again. So, I notified my manager to let her know I was going to get the hand surgery this week and and told her what the infection control nurse of our facility has stated. The physician stated it would possibly be 10 days till I can go back to work. The nurse manager seemed kind and understanding, but I just can't get the feeling that this situation is my fault (is it?) And I am getting the feeling that I might get fired? I don't know I just have this bad feeling? And what is really depressing is all my vacation and sick days will all be used up for this situation. What do you guys think?

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Specializes in Psych, Informatics, Biostatistics.

I think you won't be fired for this behavior, but it may flag you for other observations. I would endeavor to go beyond their expectations for probation, be on time, don't call off and perform well.

If you perform satisfactorily and meet their expectations; you will be OK. On the other hand if you wear pink socks and they don't like pink socks you will not pass probation.

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Specializes in ED.

Are you in a union? I wouldn't worry too much about getting fired before the management starts disciplining you for excessive absences. The best thing to do would be to talk to HR about taking FMLA time. If you go through the FMLA procedure for surgery and taking time off for a serious medical condition, then your employer can't legally fire you.

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Specializes in school nursing, ortho, trauma.

I agree -it's doubtful that you will get fired for this situation, however the powers that be will be watching your attendance patterns very closely. I have a friend that seems to get injured on the job every year right before christmas. I wonder if he will still have a job when he gets off WC again.

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Sad thing is, I'm only 6 mos into the job and I am not qualified for FMLA until I work at least a year at their union facility. Good thing I always come early to work.

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Specializes in Psych , Peds ,Nicu.

Unless contract says otherwise I think you have to have worked 1250 hours to Qualify for FMLA ( those have to be floor hours not Ed.etc..).

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I had an abscess that was drained on my hand in august (developed unexpectedly during my first week of classroom orientation) and couldn’t work for 3 shifts during my orientation due to infection control policy (if I have an open wound and it is still draining=no work). The abscess came back in the middle of December and I was scheduled to see a hand specialist the following week. Due to certain circumstances (insurance wise); I was referred to another specialist. Luckily, the abscess burst unexpectedly (probably r/t when the specialist was pinching the abscess) the following day and I was able to see the other specialist right away (my original appointment was scheduled the end of January). The specialist made an incision, drained it, and packed it. Furthermore, I had the option of getting hand surgery which involved irrigation and debridement. I had to miss 3 shifts again d/t infection control policy and the infection control nurse recommended getting the surgery since it’s so near the joint (near the thumb) and the risk of possibly developing osteomyletis. Also, I knew I was going to miss more shifts due to the draining and I really didn’t want the abscess to develop again. So, I notified my manager to let her know I was going to get the hand surgery this week and and told her what the infection control nurse of our facility has stated. The physician stated it would possibly be 10 days till I can go back to work. The nurse manager seemed kind and understanding, but I just can’t get the feeling that this situation is my fault (is it?) And I am getting the feeling that I might get fired? I don’t know I just have this bad feeling? And what is really depressing is all my vacation and sick days will all be used up for this situation. What do you guys think?

Stranger things have happened.

But why worry? Why not put out some feelers, gentle little queries to see how they're thinking. But don't put ideas into their heads. You might be better off leaving it alone.

It's not really your fault that they have a policy re: draining wounds. It's a stupid policy, IMHO. You could probably wrap the hand somehow to prevent draining where you shouldn't drain. Do they make doctors with draining wounds stay home or even refrain from surgery or examining patients? Of course not. They only want to control nurses. Or could they have you at a desk with the secretary, entering orders into the computer or something away from patients?

Not sure what to tell you but I wish you well.

For the future - do not tell your personal business at work. They do not deserve to know about your health issues. Deny drainage. Do they inspect your wound? Or what? Tell your doctor to be as vague as possible in any communiques from him to your job. Just a simple "May return to full duty 1/10/10." No details about ABX, treatments, etc. Not their business. Steal away on your break and change the bandage or something if you have to. Have it wrapped so they can't see the wound.

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

you need a converstatio with HR. If they say you stay then you stay. The law is the law.

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but I just can't get the feeling that this situation is my fault (is it?)
Did you sign up for the Time/Life Abscess of the Month Club? If not, what in the world would give you the idea that this situation is your fault?

You had a bad break. That's life. Roll with it.

Follow your doctor's orders.bandaid.png I hope your healing is quick and you are back on the floor showing them what a stellar star.png nurse you are very soon. :up:

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Specializes in ICU.

I severely jacked up my knee 36 hours before I took the NCLEX. Ended up having major knee surgery and taking two months off before I even started orientation!! I have an awesome manager who was very supportive...hope the same for you.

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