RESUMO
AIM: This study examines the impact of nurse uniforms, the coronavirus pandemic, and the image of nurses and the nursing profession on the career choice of young Muslim Arab women in nursing, with a focus on policy implications. BACKGROUND: The global nursing shortage poses significant challenges, including in Israel. Attracting young Muslim Arab women to nursing careers is vital. Understanding how nurse uniforms, the pandemic, and perceptions of nurses and the nursing profession shape their career decisions can inform policy interventions. METHODS: A cross-sectional study utilized digital questionnaires administered to 200 Muslim Arab women aged 20-30 in Israel. The study adhered to the EQUATOR checklist for cross-sectional studies. RESULTS: Only 29.2% of participants expressed interest in studying nursing. Findings revealed a positive correlation between the pandemic's impact and intention to pursue nursing. A linear regression analysis shows the impact of the white uniform, the image of nurses, and the image of the profession on the choice of a career in nursing. DISCUSSION: The study emphasizes the significance of nurse uniforms, the image of nurses, and the image of the nursing profession in shaping young Muslim Arab women's career choices in nursing. Policy interventions should raise awareness about nursing roles, expand responsibilities, and highlight nurses' contributions to society. CONCLUSION: Strategies to attract young Muslim Arab women to nursing careers should address nurse uniforms, the image of nurses, and the image of the nursing profession. IMPLICATIONS FOR POLICY: Policy interventions should prioritize diversity, promote positive images of nurses and the nursing profession, and raise awareness of nursing roles and contributions among young Muslim Arab women.
