These, it is to be hoped, are one-offs. But I think he's the exception. Think throwing up in the toilets as the MD washes her hands at the sink, clutching a splitting head as colleagues debate the finer points of office policy, trying to mix Alka Seltzer discreetly in the kitchen, and watching the filing cabinets revolve slowly around you. Medically, it is obvious. It's the following afternoon that's the worst.
Some employers are more understanding than others.
One time I was very ill, sweating and fainting, but dragged myself into work for 10am, which is allowed because we have flexitime. My boss brought it up at my performance review weeks later, saying that other people in the office were busy and if I had time to come in late, then I had time to help them. I wish I'd called in sick. She is not alone. But, perhaps surprisingly, not many of those I talked to had used that particular get-out clause.