Abstract

Aim

To determine the attitudes of patients towards male nurses in a Jamaican hospital. Background More males in nursing will help to address the nursing shortage and provide diversity in the profession. Patient attitudes towards male nurses will influence recruitment and retention.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was used. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and an attitudinal measuring scale.

Results

Seventy-three patients responded (response rate 91%). Male nurses were perceived negatively by 51% of respondents. However, only 10% had a negative perception of the care they received from male nurses. More males (80%) than females (54%) had a negative attitude towards receiving an enema from a male nurse.

Conclusions

Patients generally had a negative attitude towards male nurses but had a positive view if they were cared for by a male nurse. These traits can be used as the basis of changing the gender balance of nurses in Jamaica.