Publication Date

Spring 5-11-2024

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Sabio, Cristan

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Department

School of Nursing

Abstract

There remains a shortage of nurses in the United States. The nursing workforce is aging. Nursing remains majority female. Male nurses can fill the shortage, but men make up only 12% of the workforce. This qualitative study investigated the perspectives of male undergraduate nursing students regarding their education and healthcare roles, the factors contributing to the underrepresentation of men in nursing and explored ideas to attract more men to nursing. A focus group interview was conducted with 13 male baccalaureate nursing students currently enrolled at a midwestern university. Data was analyzed using thematic content analysis. The qualitative analysis generated five broad overarching main themes: 1) Decision to pursue nursing, 2) Perceptions of being a man in nursing, 3) Field of interests, 4) Men in nursing normalizing, and 5) Raising awareness for recruitment. Overall, misconceptions and stereotypes about men in nursing persist to this day; however, there is a shift from gender-based misconceptions to misconceptions of the nurses' roles and responsibilities. With family support and overall positive experiences from unit staff within the clinical setting, men in nursing are becoming more normalized, and nursing is better seen as a career option among men. To attract more men into nursing, comprehensive strategies should include engaging local chapters of professional nursing organizations and student organizations to educate middle and high school students about nursing and what nurses do and using media to continue breaking stereotypes. Diversity within the workplace can alleviate the nursing shortage and support a healthier workplace culture and environment.

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