Educational and professional experiences of men in nursing: An interpretive description study to guide change and foster inclusive environments for men in nursing

Background

Nursing shortages are occurring due to decreased student enrollment, nurse burnout, staffing deficits, nurse retirements, and increasingly low numbers of nursing faculty. Men are an untapped resource that can offset these crises. However, men's presence in nursing remains underwhelming. Changes aimed at improving diversity and inclusivity related to men's presence is needed in the nursing workforce.

Purpose

Explore men's experiences in modern nursing environments to identify barriers to men's presence in nursing faculty and clinical workforce roles.

Method

This study used interpretive description design. Data were collected through individual and group interviews. Interviews were video recorded. Interview questions were semi-structured and open ended. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Two themes were identified and reflected men's experiences in nursing: educational and professional change. Subthemes for educational change included increasing numbers of men in student and faculty roles; instructional change; admission, retention, and advising. Subthemes for professional change included inclusive hiring practices; healthy working environments; and leadership outcomes.

Conclusion

Findings constitute calls for action. Change implementation should address barriers to diversity and inclusivity related to men's presence in nursing. Recommendations and strategies presented can guide change implementation. Change implementation is expected to strengthen the nursing profession.