A “traditional” perception of nurses in movies, television and culture presents the field as a primarily female demographic. Who can forget nurse-present classics such as Patch Adams, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and The English Patient? While a female-only presence is not always the case in the real world, male representation in nursing certainly isn’t a one-to-one ratio.
According to data from the American Nurses Association (ANA), only about 13% of the nursing workforce includes nurses who identify as male. There are a number of factors that contribute to the lack of men in the field, and a number of reasons why increasing male presence in the industry benefits both nurses and patients alike.
A Much-Needed New View of Men in Nursing
Nursing is fundamentally rooted in care, empathy and professional competence. Historically, societal constructs have painted nursing as a profession better suited to women, stemming from the outdated notion of women as the “natural” caregivers. Such preconceived notions stigmatize men entering nursing, discouraging their participation.
Nonetheless, the importance of male representation in nursing cannot be understated, as it bolsters patient comfort, eradicates harmful stereotypes and brings fresh perspectives to patient care. To create a more balanced and diverse healthcare landscape, this stigma must be actively challenged and dismantled.
Benefits of More Men in the Nursing Field
Patient comfort and preference are central to the effective provision of healthcare. Some patients, especially men, may prefer a male nurse for personal, cultural or religious reasons. For instance, male patients might feel more at ease discussing specific male health issues with a nurse of the same gender (including prostate issues, urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction). By having a more gender-balanced nursing workforce, we can respect and cater to these preferences. This ensures an environment where patients feel most comfortable and understood.
Moreover, an increased male presence in nursing can help debunk harmful and archaic stereotypes. By encouraging more men to enter nursing, we begin to convey that nursing is not a gender-specific profession but a noble calling for anyone gifted with strong skills in empathy, compassion and medicine. Challenging (and ultimately changing) these stereotypes is crucial, not only for men considering a career in nursing but for the overall public perception of the profession.
It’s important to note that this effort is not meant to take away jobs from female nurses. The nursing shortage is still affecting healthcare entities across the country. To reach a resolution, we simply need more nurses.
Men’s Potential for Unique Contributions
Beyond the practical, men also bring unique perspectives and strengths to nursing. These include but are not limited to different communication styles, problem-solving techniques and interpersonal skills that can enhance patient care and the nursing practice. This diversity in approach and perspective fosters a more dynamic and holistic healthcare environment, benefitting patients and medical teams.
Take Charge of Your Career with an RN to BSN Online Program
Of course, before men can become nurses and bring more diversity to the profession, they must study. Educational programs such as the Northern Kentucky University’s (NKU) Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) online program play a pivotal role in promoting and fostering male representation in nursing.
NKU’s program, grounded in a comprehensive curriculum, equips all its graduates, regardless of gender, with the well-rounded skills essential for a successful nursing career. By fostering an inclusive and welcoming educational environment, the program encourages prospective male students to venture into nursing, breaking down barriers and establishing a foundation for future growth.
This online program offers flexibility, with seven-week courses that commence six times yearly. Students can complete coursework in as few as 10 months. The program is also affordable, with the same total tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students. And you will pay only for the courses you are enrolled in.
Change the Future
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, so must our understanding and representation of those who constitute it. Increasing male representation in nursing is not just about achieving statistical balance. It’s about upholding the core values of the nursing profession — empathy, compassion and respect for all. For the men considering a career in nursing, remember that your gender doesn’t define your capacity to care or your potential for success in this rewarding field.
Learn more about Northern Kentucky University’s online RN to BSN program.
