I don't know quite how to describe this. But, as men, our society feeds us this masculine role and gender expectations. A man is supposed to be strong, confident, non-emotional, and aggressive right? That could be why some people don't understand why we would go into this field. I'm here to tell you what I have done to fit in.
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Just wanted to say that I have personally had a great experience both in the nursing program and in clinicals be a male student. When I initially started, I was concerned going into a female dominated field. However, overall, I have had good experiences. In fact, I receive compliments all the time. Like, "The best nurse I've had was male. Or, we really need you in this field. And, the typical, we have to have men for their strength (like our strength will move a 500lb patient all in one big swoop)." With enough hands, men or not, people can move big patients. Anyway.
I suppose I don't think about nursing as a "female dominated field." But, just a field. It's a job that just so happens there are a lot of women in. Even in OB and L&D, I had good experiences. Really Great Experiences! Magical Even (especially in L&D)! It's amazing seeing a baby born. So, what have I done that has eased my transition into this field? A few different things. I do take pride in the ability to go in a variety of situations and be able to communicate and relate to many demographics. But, some people have difficulty to do so. However, I'll tell you what I've done that anyone should be able to do.
1. I'm polite and respectful. It really goes a looong way to use formal names (sirs, mams, miss, etc.) Unless pt says otherwise, continue to do so. I also use formal names with fellow co-workers. Hold and open doors for people. Ask if the family needs anything. Just try to do little things you'd do for your family. Try to help make the hospital setting a little less bland and a little more like home.
2. I greet everyone! Use good morning, good evening, good night. Hello, How are you? Etc. It seems like those little things are neglected. People really remember that stuff. People don't remember my name but I'm the friendly dude who always says good morning.
3. Keep your mouth shut. We talk about therapeutic communication techniques. The only one I can remember all the time is keep quiet. Because I'm a student, I'm afforded the luxury of sitting with patients, unlike a typical nurse (just too darn busy most of the time). I find that asking to sit and having a good quality conversation about just about anything really opens doors to trust and further communication. I've heard amazing stories. I've received information that was important in their care that wasn't in the chart and ultimately was relayed to the nurse. I'm a very talkative guy and I talk how I write. I like to be detailed and like to know as much information as possible. However, if there is one skill you learn about during communication is keeping your mouth shut and allowing the patient to express his or her's ideas.
4. Smile. I try to greet everyone with a smile. So now, I'm the guy who always says good morning with a smile. Sometimes, it's hard to summon smiles but it really helps. Of course, reserve your smile during sad times when inappropriate but smiling is helpful. At the hospital I do clinicals at, the codeword to smile is "sunshine!"
5. Check your manliness at the door. I don't know quite how to describe this. But, as men, our society feeds us this masculine role and gender expectations. A man is supposed to be strong, confident, non-emotional, a gear-head, a sports fanatic, excessively curse/cuss, aggressive, overly sexual, beer drinking, party animals, muscular, etc, etc, etc. That could be why some people don't understand why we would go into this field. Try to understand that we have been socialized and were taught that these qualities are normal for men (of course, not ALL these qualities are applicable in every situation and upbringing) But, I would urge you this. Try to analyze yourself and notice your inappropriate tendencies and behaviors towards others because some of that is not condoned in a hospital setting. Try to find out if you have those "manly" behaviors and tendencies are going to hinder your care. They could also hinder your professionalism in the eyes of your co-workers and clinical instructors. I've worked with a "manly" guy in my clinical group and it's unpleasant, slightly embarrassing, and puts men in a bad light. He can be obnoxious and hard to work with because of that. He cracks sexual jokes in the hall and will nudge my shoulder in a manly-haha-you know what I mean way. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for joking and YES, I work with attractive women. However, there is a time and place for that type of talk. Check your manliness at the door.
That's about all I've got so far. Being a polite, friendly, approachable, and appropriately manly guy, you should have good reviews from patients, families, co-workers, and the almighty clinical instructors.
