The image of nursing, as perceived by Iranian male nurses

Nurs Health Sci. 2014 Sep;16(3):307-13. doi: 10.1111/nhs.12101. Epub 2014 Mar 17.

Abstract

The stereotypical public image of nursing is a major concern for male nurses around the world. In this study, we explored how Iranian male nurses perceived the public view of nurses, and their perceptions of themselves. A qualitative descriptive design and content analysis were used to obtain data from 18 purposely-selected male hospital nurses with a baccalaureate nursing degree in Tabriz, Iran. Semistructured interviews were conducted and analyzed. Two main themes emerged: (i) the outsider's view of nursing, which referred to the participants' perceptions of their public image; and (ii) the insider's view, which related to the male nurses' perceptions of themselves. Results included personal transition into a positive professional self-image through the educational process, and continued public perception of nursing as a female profession ill-suited for a man. Strategies to improve the insider's and outsider's views of nursing are listed to help recruit and retain more Iranian male nurses.

Keywords: Iran; male nurse; nursing image; public image; self-perception.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Hospitals, Public
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Iran
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nurse's Role*
  • Nurse-Patient Relations*
  • Nurses
  • Nurses, Male / education
  • Nurses, Male / psychology*
  • Nurses, Male / statistics & numerical data
  • Perception
  • Professional Competence
  • Professional Role
  • Qualitative Research
  • Self Concept*
  • Sex Factors
  • Staff Development
  • Young Adult