Sick leave may also be used for which of the following purposes?

Sick leave is designed primarily to support employees during periods when they are unable to work due to health-related issues or responsibilities that arise from those health issues. Utilizing sick leave for parental leave is a valid context because it recognizes the time needed for a parent to care for a newborn or newly adopted child, which can often involve medical appointments, recovery periods, or other necessary responsibilities directly associated with parental care.

This aligns with the essential function of sick leave, allowing workers to manage their health and family responsibilities without the added stress of losing income. Other options, such as out-of-town vacations, personal leisure activities, and extended work shifts, generally do not fit the intended purpose of sick leave, which is primarily for health-related absences.