Question Answered step-by-step Amanda graduated at the top of her class, so when she decided to go… Amanda graduated at the top of her class, so when she decided to go to nursing school, many of her friends and family questioned her decision. Stereotypical questions regarding why she wanted to be a “physician’s handmaiden,” and not a physician emerged. Although others expressed concerns that Amanda lacked the “oppressive battle-ax Nurse Ratchet” attitude to be a nurse, Amanda’s boyfriend supported her decision but was concerned with the portrayal of nurses as sex kittens and hoped that Amanda’s career would be viewed with a level of respect. For Amanda, however, the decision to go to nursing school was a natural one.When asked why she wanted to be a nurse, Amanda initially had difficulty articulating her response beyond the desire to take care of people. When pressured to elaborate, Amanda admitted that her desire to be a nurse began when she was 12, following the removal of her appendix. Amanda recalled how the nurse looked so professional in her white uniform and how she expressed a genuine concern for Amanda and her family. Amanda remembered how intelligent and patient the nurse was in answering her mother’s endless questions regarding the appendectomy, surgical risks, and recovery.Throughout nursing school Amanda gained even greater respect for her chosen profession. Heroes such as Florence Nightingale shaped Amanda’s perception of nursing.Shortly after graduation Amanda began working on a medical-surgical unit, where she experienced a rude awakening. The transition from nursing school to nurse was difficult. Amanda felt that her ability to care for her patients was affected by issues beyond her control. She also felt she lacked the authority to make decisions, and issues such as staffing levels and caseloads interfered with time with patients. Amanda began to question the Florence Nightingale concept of nursing and felt the nursing image she had adhered to did not exist. Her family and friends again questioned why Amanda chose to be a nurse.Over time, however, Amanda began to adjust to her role, gaining the respect of her colleagues for her fine intellect. Her abilities were challenged by “life or death” decisions during times of chaos. Amanda began to manage her responsibilities more efficiently, allowing more time to be with her patients. As Amanda began to establish her own role identity she realized, “Nursing is most truly said to be a high calling, an honorable calling.” (Florence Nightingale, Advice to Nursing Students [1873]) 1. What influence do the media play in shaping society’s view of nursing? 2. How does the misrepresentation in the media affect the profession? Health Science Science Nursing NURN 129 Share QuestionEmailCopy link Comments (0)