Motivators and Success Strategies Experienced by Men in Nursing: An Interpretive Description Study

Abstract

Men comprise a small minority of the nursing workforce and there has been little increase in the numbers of men in nursing during the last three decades. This study investigated lived experiences of male nurses to understand reasons men remain a small percentage of the nursing workforce. Participants shared similar and diverse experiences. Findings included focused discussion on participants’ career motivations and strategies for success in nursing. Motivators included family influences, desire to care, and job benefits. Success strategies included assimilation, organizational involvement, and mentorship. This study highlights the need for nurses to be ambassadors for diversity and inclusivity and can be used to improve nursing recruitment efforts aimed at men.