Navigating masculinity in nursing: Unpacking the 'critical care only' career aspirations of male undergraduate nursing students.

AIM

This qualitative study explores the motivations and perceptions underlying the demonstrable preference for critical care careers among a cohort of male undergraduate nursing students.

BACKGROUND

Despite increasing numbers of men entering nursing, gendered expectations and stereotypes persist. Previous research has explored the experiences of male nurses in the workforce, highlighting the challenges they face in navigating a female-dominated profession. However, there remains a gap in understanding the origins of these gendered career aspirations during the formative undergraduate years.

DESIGN

A phenomenological approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews.

METHODS

Final-year male undergraduate nursing students were recruited from a metropolitan Australian university. Thematic analysis was used to identify and interpret key themes related to their career aspirations.

RESULTS

Four overarching themes emerged: 1) Beyond the Bedside: The Allure of 'Masculine' Nursing, 2) Mirrors and Mentors: The Influence of Male Role Models in Critical Care, 3) Media Mythmaking: The Heroism of Critical Care and 4) Fast Track to the Top: Ambition and the Glass Escalator.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the complex interplay of societal expectations, role modeling, media influence and perceived opportunities for career advancement in shaping the preferences of male nursing students towards critical care. The findings highlight the necessity of transcending simplistic definitions of "masculine" and "feminine" roles. Furthermore, responsible representation in the media is crucial for minimizing disillusionment. By deepening our understanding of these multifaceted motivations, nursing education programs and healthcare institutions can more effectively support male students, promote diversity across all specialties and cultivate a more inclusive and equitable nursing workforce.