Patient's gender preference for nursing care

Abstract

Background: Patients gender preference for nursing care is one of the concerns in the hospital setting that have existed in the past few years. However, it remains unclear since it is unexplored and usually not given that much attention. Most studies have identified preferences for medical practitioners and few studies were done concerning gender preferences for nursing care.

Purpose of the study: This study determined the gender preferences for nursing care among the patients of West Visayas State University-Medical Center. This study was conducted August to September 2014.

Methodology: A quantitative-qualitative approach was used with a total of 140 participants selected through quota sampling: 20 participants each from 7 areas of confinement in the hospital. A three-page researcher made survey questionnaire was administered. Eighteen (18) participants were purposively selected for Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to obtain in-depth dimensions of their differences and Thematic Analysis to identify common themes. Ethical approval was granted by WVSU Unified Biomedical Research Ethics Review Committee.

Findings: The study revealed no significant differences in patient's gender preferences for nursing care when classified as to: age, gender, religion, marital status, educational attainments, monthly income, and area of confinement. The following themes were identified according to their preference: Male: "Sturdiness beyond Compassion"—"less emotional", "strong, firm", "works faster"; Female: "the warmth of a Healing Heart"—"compassionate", "approachable and easy to communicate with", "refined and well-detailed"; No preferences: "Professionalism: Basis for Patient's Trust"—"provides the same care", "same training and education", and "I have no choice but if given the chance, I will", "no choice, whomsoever is available".

Recommendations: Further studies are encouraged to broaden and develop this study's identified categories (themes) and with additional respondents for identification of new themes. Studies in different health care settings could be done such as in private health care facilities.