Same place but different experience: A qualitative study on gender and the nursing work environment

Abstract

Aim This study aimed to reveal the opinions and experiences of male and female nurses concerning the nursing work environment in hospitals. Background The quality of the nursing work environment greatly impacts the improvement of the patient, nurse and organizational outcomes. Therefore, a better understanding of the experiences of male and female nurses can contribute to the creation of a more positive work environment. Methods In this descriptive qualitative study, data were collected with semi-structured interviews conducted in 2020 with 18 nurses who were recruited via purposive and maximum variation sampling. Data was analysed with content analysis. Results The content analysis revealed two major themes (the effects of gender on workplace practices and the image of nursing and gendered communication in the nursing work environment) and eight subthemes. Conclusion This study concluded that male and female nurses experience advantages/disadvantages and similarities/differences in the nursing work environment and that both male and female nurses experience challenges regarding workplace relations and the work environment. Implications for Nursing Management A better understanding of the problems associated with the different experiences of male and female nurses in the workplace may help nurse managers to create a more positive work environment.