"it's implied that any sick time would result in being disciplined." good old nhs. friend of mine, driving to late shift on geriatric ward, gets caught in a shunt. not injured, but shaken, rings ward intending to explain why late. Manager: "oh dear oh dear....I do hope you're all right..." Nurse: "yes, yes, I'm OK..." Manager [continuing without pausing] "....because you'll have to come in! there's no-one to cover for you!"