The stereotype of nurse as superhero feeds into a culture that makes nurses reluctant to take time off when they are sick and work without breaks, to live up to an unrealistic image. This is reinforced by employers’ punitive sickness policies and the need to work extra hours to make up for poor staffing levels and unfilled vacancies. Our panel of nurses share their views on the issue, considering whether employers have a duty to debunk the myth and support nurses by prioritising their well-being.