quick, help!!

fredpuma

So, I'm a new RN. I just started a few months ago and I'm still on orientation, which means I have another seasoned RN paired with me at all times. I worked Monday and about mid morning started feeling achy, miserable, etc. I was pretty sure I had a plugged duct already so I was worried I was getting a breast infection, but I've gotten through that in the ppast wth lots of nursing and hot compresses. By the time I got off I was running a nasty fever, which has been on and off till today [kill me.] I was supposed to work today but I called in cause I couldn't imagine working 13 hours running a 101 fever all day. I went to the doctor and she told me I have mastitis, am not contagious, and gave me antibiotics and a note excusing me tomorrow.
But I don't know if I should call in tomorrow or not. I still feel like serious crap, and my boob hurts like a B. Plus, Ihave really hard time pumping at work [probably the reason this happened in the first place] and I'm hesitant to go work for 13 hours knowing I'll only get to pump once when I already have a breast infection. They won't have to cover my shift because the person training me will get my patients. But, I'm still new, and it's Thanksgiving which is [I'm afraid] going to look terrible of I do call in. I'm having a really hard time making up my mind. Wwyd?

jmccall79

Oh, this is tough...being a newbie and calling in, I know it doesn't look good.  However, if you've got a doctor's excuse, I'd probably call in.  It's not like they're going to have to 'cover' for you, like you said.  Someone is already scheduled because they would shadowing  you.  Here's a question...what are the chances that you're going to get better if you don't do lots of nursing and hot compressions like you've done in the past?  Will the antibiotics make it go away and you'll be feeling better tomorrow?  Me, personally, I think I'd  have to call in...

Jen0204

klutzygrl26:

I'd show up. I would tell the nurse that you're following what's going on and explain that you have to pump. If you're in training thry should be able to allow that. If you get worse or just feel like absolute crap although you probably already do they can send you home. You'll look better to your future coworkers and bosses if you show up. Its unfortunate but it's going to look really bad if you take off a holiday.

I agree with this. If you explain your situation do you think they could let you pump more? With them not knowing you I think it's very lucky they'll be very suspicious of you calling out. Sorry  

fredpuma

Well, my preceptor [the nurse in charge of my training] ended up calling me this evening and talked me into staying at home. She said she's already talked to the director and told her I am legit sick, not just trying to get off for the holiday, and it's not worth it for me to come drag myself around all day feeling like crap when they don't actually need me. She said to stop worrying and just make sure I get better and that when I get back she'll help me figure out some better ways to make sure I get to pump enough during my shift.
Now I need to figure out something to bring her to show my thanks next week.