Implications of a More Gender Balanced Nursing Workforce

The shortage of nurses is a longstanding and global problem and is associated with increases in patient safety issues and patient mortality. One potential solution to address this is the recruitment of more men, who currently only constitute a small proportion of the nursing workforce. This shortage is attributable to the feminisation of nursing as a career which has resulted in stereotypes and gender biases that deter men from applying. Increasing the number of men in the profession can potentially confer additional benefits such as enabling men to choose a carer of their own gender. However, the implications of improving the gender balance are unknown and research from other areas show it may result in unanticipated consequences.

Through a case study approach this project therefore aims to identify the implications of having a more gender balanced nursing workforce. Clinical areas with high and low numbers of male nursing staff will be selected as cases and data will be collected from a range of sources including: semi-structured interviews with male and female staff of all grades and male and female patients; and questionnaires measuring patient reported outcomes. Data collection tools will be informed by a Systematic Review which examines the impact of improving gender balance in other disciplines. Qualitative data will be analysed using the Framework method and data will be triangulated to develop a more holistic explanation of the phenomenon. To ensure relevance to Stakeholders, the project will involve collaboration with the Scottish Government who will provide input into the development of data collection instruments and interpretation of findings.

It is anticipated that the findings will be of use to workforce planners and service providers and ultimately provide a more effective service.

Funding Notes

Eligibility:
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
• A good first degree (at least 2:1) or Masters, preferably with a social science component
• Demonstrate an interest in, and knowledge of health and social care and gender issues.
• Ability to work collaboratively

Students must meet ESRC eligibility criteria. ESRC eligibility information can be found here*: https://esrc.ukri.org/skills-and-careers/doctoral-training/prospective-students/

Award Details:
The scholarship is available as a +3 or a 1+3 programme depending on prior research training. This will be assessed as part of the recruitment process. Study can be full-time or part-time. The programme will commence in September 2020. It includes:
• an annual maintenance grant at the RCUK rate
• fees at the standard Home rate
• students can also draw on a pooled Research Training Support Grant, usually up to a maximum of £750 per year

http://www.sgsss.ac.uk/studentship/implications-of-a-more-gender-balanced-nursing-workforce/

Applications will be ranked by a selection panel and applicants will be notified if they have been shortlisted for interview by 24.4.20. Interviews will take place on 11.5.20.

All scholarship awards are subject to candidates successfully securing admission to a PhD programme within University of Dundee. Successful scholarship applicants will be invited to apply for admission to the relevant PhD programme after they are selected for funding.