Exploring the perceptions of male nursing students enrolled in an accelerated baccalaureate degree nursing program

Abstract

Objective: To gain understanding about the factors that drew men to an accelerated baccalaureate degree nursing program, the challenges they faced, and the support they need to complete the program.

Methods: This qualitative descriptive study explored the perceptions of male nursing students enrolled in an accelerated baccalaureate degree nursing program. The study design used semi-structured questions in a focus group format comprised of a sample of male nursing students currently enrolled in the ABSN program of a southeastern academic health sciences center. Relatively few studies have examined male nursing students, and those enrolled in a non-traditional program typically have unique circumstances. The significance of this study to nursing science is that the results will add to the growing body of knowledge regarding the recruitment and retention of males into nursing schools.

Results: Following data analysis, four themes emerged from the participant responses related to sacrifice, knowledge gain, organization for survival, and opportunities for men in nursing.

Conclusions: The results of this study highlight the attraction of accelerated BSN programs since many men opt for nursing as a second career choice. Results of this study may be used to improve recruitment and retention of male nursing students.