PTO, Guilt, and Patient Care: The Truth About Missing Work in Healthcare

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when healthcare workers are sick—but still come to work anyway?In this episode of Banter at the Bedside, Abby (NP), Kaleigh (RN), Cody (RN), and Dr. Jeff talk honestly about the past pressures to show up when you're sick, recovering, caring for a sick child, or simply exhausted. From working through COVID policies to navigating childcare challenges, staffing shortages, PTO limitations, and guilt about leaving teammates short-handed, they explore why calling out in healthcare is never a simple decision.They also share personal stories—from working with strep throat on a hospice hallway to coming back too early after concussion, parenting decisions around daycare illness, and how hospital culture around sickness changed after COVID.If you’ve ever wondered: Should I call out sick?  Am I letting my team down?  Why is this so complicated? This conversation is for you.Because the hospital never closes—but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t rest.🎙️ Join the Shift Talkers as they unpack the reality of working while sick in healthcare. These are our opinions only, they don't represent any entity.