Can I ask about male:female nurse ratio?

[Swellz]

Is it acceptable to ask what the male-female nurse ratio is on a floor at an interview?

I prefer working with men. I know, I'm in the wrong profession. But I grew up with four brothers and guy friends and I just think it eases the tension. I can and have worked with all women, its just my preference to work with both.

Do you think that is a reasonable question to ask a nurse manager, or should I not bother?

[turnforthenurse, MSN, NP]

I think that's a rather odd question to ask and may get your potential employer wondering. Nursing is predominantly female even though there are more males entering the profession. I work on a PCU and there are only three male nurses - one who works days, the other two work nights. It seems like most of the males work in ICU or ER, at least where I work.

[bebbercorn]

I believe that male nurses make up less than 10% of the nursing population, and I agree with turnforthenurseRN about their chosen fields. But I believe it would be unprofessional to ask about this...

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

I agree--it is a very odd question that in no way (IMO) could come off well when being asked. I would not ask it.

Though if you really want to work with male nurses, come to psych. We seem to attract a lot of guys to the field. In fact, there have been more than a few instances where I've been the only female staff member--nurse or otherwise--on the unit.

[HippyDippyLPN]

Don't ask. I understand what your saying but it will just look like your difficult to get along with

[St_Claire, ADN, RN]

I wouldn't ask. Use your powers of observation.

[Swellz]

Thanks, totally see what you are saying