Una fotografía de la imagen social de la Enfermería

Abstract

Objective: to determine the Nursing’s social image of the Asturian population. Methods: Multicentric descriptive study with quota sampling by self-administered questionnaire, conducted in the Principality of Asturias (Spain) between 11/01/2017 – 03/31/2018. It realizes an univariate analysis of the 8 social spheres and bivariant analysis with sociodemographic variables and relationship with Nursing. Results: We obtained a final sample of 335 questionnaires. Nursing is the second health profession best valued, behind Medicine. 80,9% associate us with a university career. Around 75% believe that Nursing is well trained and that their skills have improved in the last decade, as well as Specialist Nurses should only work in their specific area. 71,3% would not trust the Nurse’s prescription without consulting it with their doctor later. The Nurse’s main attributes are: vocation, responsibility and being skillful; as well as the functions of healing wounds, techniques and helping the doctor. The answers about stereotypes and salary are neutral. Conclusions: Although some results are better than previous studies, certain stereotypes and beliefs persist in the professional image. Therefore, we can’t stop working so population knows and recognizes us.