In the context of present-day developments, when people have to adjust to pandemic conditions and need medical services, the perception of the nursing profession has changed drastically. Previously, the general public lacked awareness of nursing duties, and portrayals of this profession were various. The media presented them as “handmaidens” of doctors, which shaped opinions about them among the population (Garcia, 2021). In addition, the public was aware of the nursing shortage, as this issue was also widely broadcasted (Garcia, 2021). However, the pandemic changed the attitude toward this job significantly (“How the pandemic has affected the public’s perception of nursing”, 2021). The work of nurses has become especially vital for the whole population of the planet. The news published in the media shed light on this profession, covering news on coronavirus. People could comprehend that nurses are required to make frontline decisions and play a crucial role in delivering high-quality medical services (“How the pandemic has affected the public’s perception of nursing”, 2021). Thus, it can be concluded that media is an influential factor, which contributes to forming the public’s perception of this job.
Considering the impact of media on shaping people’s opinions, it is worth taking advantage of this factor. The media should reveal the work of nursing, covering their duties precisely and highlighting the importance of their functions. However, nurses may also contribute to educating the general public on their profession and conveying the correct and objective portrayal (“Let’s take the lead in educating the public about nursing”, 2016). Specialists should not minimize their work and its significance in general. It is recommended to show their value, avoiding hiding personal efforts in the treatment process (“Let’s take the lead in educating the public about nursing”, 2016). In addition, nurses should convey self-respect, advancing a professional image while communicating (“Let’s take the lead in educating the public about nursing”, 2016). Therefore, these easy actions may lead to a greater awareness of the nursing profession, making the public’s perception more objective.
References
How the pandemic has affected the public’s perception of nursing. (2021). Duke University School of Nursing. Web.
Let’s take the lead in educating the public about nursing.(2016). American Nurse. Web.
Garcia, R. (2021). Has COVID-19 changed the public perception of nursing?.OpenLearn. Web.