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Tired of staring at the white walls of your hospital? Going crazy eating cafeteria food? Time for a break! Whether it’s a relaxing cruise, an exotic island getaway, or a sandy beach adventure, it’s high time you got out of those scrubs and away from the dreariness of charting and rounds.
Worried your workload will keep you from your vacay? We’ll help you get around an overbearing manager, angry coworkers, and problematic patients so you can get the rest and relaxation you deserve. If you follow these practical dos and don’ts, you’ll find yourself out the door before you know it!
1. Do Ask in Advance
The fastest way to get shot down when asking for time off is asking at the last minute. Your boss is a busy person, with a lot on her plate. Why not make her job easier, (and show how considerate and responsible you are) by asking weeks — or months — in advance? Not only are you doing yourself a favor, but your manager will appreciate the heads up and can plan the shift schedule accordingly. She’ll have the time to consider the request fairly … and you’ll have the added bonus of having plenty of time to try again if you’re denied.
2. Don’t Mention the Fun Factor
Just because you’re planning a vacation doesn’t mean you have to advertise it. Making a big deal of your upcoming trip might not just distract you from doing your work — it might even irritate other nurses as well. Don’t act like you’ve started your vacation early! Nobody wants to hear you go on and on about your impending trip to the Bahamas when they’re going to be stuck with the late shift.
