I know I should expect this as I am in nursing but it's driving me insane. I am constantly being asked to work extra. They message and/or call while I'm at work and while I'm at home.
Granted, my job isn't that difficult as it's home care but it is 12 hour shifts... I work 3 on, 3 off... 4 on, 4 off.
I don't have any children but I do have a life outside of work. I hate to say no. And, I've run out of excuses as to why I can't work extra. Sometimes here and there, I will pick up a half day and once in a while (rare), I will pick up an extra 12hr shift.
It's hard to ignore a text or phone call, especially when they are calling while I'm at work. They ask at least twice a week, and then act irritated when I say I can't. Honestly, I'm just exhausted and need those days off but I don't want to not sound like a team player. I don't call out sick... No matter what. I do have vacation days that I'm worried about losing because we are so short staffed.
What do you do when your boss is constantly calling and texting you to come in on your day off? What if they did it while at work. Especially when they ask for the whole month... Example "are there any days you can cover in November?"
Why do we all feel guilty for saying "no"? You shouldn't have to make excuses beyond "I'm not available, I have plans". I once got a call from a supervisor who wouldn't take no for an answer. After I told her I had to teach Sunday School, she offered to come teach my class if I worked the shift.
Specializes in Pediatrics, Pediatric Float, PICU, NICU.
22 minutes ago, Katie82 said:
Why do we all feel guilty for saying "no"? You shouldn't have to make excuses beyond "I'm not available, I have plans". I once got a call from a supervisor who wouldn't take no for an answer. After I told her I had to teach Sunday School, she offered to come teach my class if I worked the shift.
I respectfully disagree, I don’t even think you have to offer the excuse of having plans. There have been plenty times where I had no plans at all but just did not want to work, and have no shame in that and no need to say I have plans.
Specializes in Psych, Addictions, SOL (Student of Life).
"I hate to say no. And, I've run out of excuses as to why I can't work extra."
You don't need an excuse. There is nothing wrong with wanting work life balance. Forgetting this is why so many nurses end up going off the deep end. I have three autoimmune diseases and my rest and down time is essential to my health and sanity. When I go home I put all hospital calls and texts on "Do not disturb unless I want to work extra (which these days is rare).
Just two days ago I worked a double and boy did I pay for it. After 16 hours on I left the hospital and had a painful (doesn't really describe it well) reaction within my body and Didn't sleep for over 24 hours.
My point being that your time off is your time off and you should treasure it.
"I hate to say no. And, I've run out of excuses as to why I can't work extra."
You don't need an excuse. There is nothing wrong with wanting work life balance. Forgetting this is why so many nurses end up going off the deep end. I have three autoimmune diseases and my rest and down time is essential to my health and sanity. When I go home I put all hospital calls and texts on "Do not disturb unless I want to work extra (which these days is rare).
Just two days ago I worked a double and boy did I pay for it. After 16 hours on I left the hospital and had a painful (doesn't really describe it well) reaction within my body and Didn't sleep for over 24 hours.
My point being that your time off is your time off and you should treasure it.
Hppy
💯 100% do not have to have a reason AT ALL. Don't even owe them a reason!
Katie82, RN
642 Posts
Why do we all feel guilty for saying "no"? You shouldn't have to make excuses beyond "I'm not available, I have plans". I once got a call from a supervisor who wouldn't take no for an answer. After I told her I had to teach Sunday School, she offered to come teach my class if I worked the shift.