Healthcare workers - do you stay off for full 48hrs after D+V?

Yes, definitely. It's 72 hours where I work and it's not worth risking the patients' health coming back while you still have symptoms. Although, I admit I can see why some people feel they should come in, as it can be so short staffed sometimes, the pressure is enormous.

I've sent people home who've come back too early (social care settings rather than healthcare - but the same policy). I can think of occasions where I've felt a total cow for doing this as they were agency workers and wouldn't get paid for the first three days of sick and then stat pay only.

I know I should really, just feel like a fraud staying at home, esp since our usual contingent of 5 Doctors will be down to 2 without me (as we have other sickness/absence in the team), so I'm not sure which is a worse risk to patient safety on Weds, esp given I will be 36hrs post last D+V by the start of my shift....

Sorry but regardless of how many hours post your last D/V or how many Drs are out - if you've been ill with D&V I wouldn't want to see you until you were 48hrs clear! It's not fair on you let alone your patients. Infection control rules! I know it's hard especially when you feel so much better in yourself but you know how easily these things transfer.

Thanks all. I would normally jump at the chance of a couple more days at home, but the staffing situation was dire - normally 2 Drs on admissions, and 1 on each of 4 other wards - today there was 1 doctor to cover all 6 areas, when I was more than 40 hrs post last symptoms. Just wonder where the magic figure of 48hrs comes from, and whether it is over or under-cautious etc.

I am sure they survived, presumably the Drs above had to act down, including the consultants, will hear the horror stories (or not) tomorrow when I am back in.

On a more positive note, H, LO and I had a lovely morning in the sunshine on the beach together, so it was a lovely day off for me!!

It's crucial to prioritize both your health and the safety of patients and colleagues. Returning to work too soon after D+V can risk spreading illness, even if symptoms seem to have subsided. Embracing solutions like healthcare service automation can help facilities manage workloads more efficiently during staff shortages. Ensuring proper coverage allows healthcare workers to recover fully without compromising care quality.