The Influence Of The Image Of Nursing

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Nurses are making an effort to create a positive public image of the profession. According to Giddens (2012), “ the national Gallup poll has found nursing to be the most trusted of 19 professions, with nurses admired for their honesty and ethical standards” (p.359). The media has influenced the image of nursing forming stereotypes about nursing. According to Weaver, Salamonson, Koch, & Jackson (2013), “these stereotypes may enhance or ultimately damage the appeal of nursing, for potential students and commend or denigrate the value and status of the profession” (p.2).
The image of nursing has changed throughout history. According to ten Hoeve, Y., Jansen, G., & Roodbol, P. (2013), “Florence Nightingale saw nursing as an independent profession that was not subordinate, but equal to the medical profession (physicians), for a long time nursing was seen as inseparable from the medical profession” (p.2). The image and the position of nurses was influenced based on the orders of a physician. Nurses were viewed as feminine and caring, not as healthcare providers. As a result, nursing seemed to be viewed as a profession with limited career opportunities. The image of nursing has evolved over time as well as the roles and practices in order to meet the needs of society.
Today, the media has a great influence on the image of nursing. The …show more content…

Nursing is a dynamic profession that grows and evolves as society and lifestyles change. The media has influenced the image of nursing. It has provided the public with a perceived image, whether it be a positive or negative, about nursing. In addition, the media provides the public the image of nursing with at times with misconceptions and stereotypes. Although the media can also present a positive image for nursing, such as stories about nurses helping in natural disasters. It’s the nurses’ task to perform their roles professionally, providing the public with a positive image of

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