Factors that have influenced Asian males to stay or leave the nursing profession: A systematic review.

Abstract

Aim: To explore factors that have influenced Asian male nurses to stay or leave the nursing profession. Background: Nursing is often associated with gender or sexual stereotypes. The nursing workforce has been on a global decline, with men joining the profession initially. Concurrently and subsequently, men have been expressing desires of leaving the profession due to varied reasons. Methods (Data analysis, Criteria, Appraisal, Synthesis): A mixed study systematic review was conducted by using narrative synthesis in past studies that were published between the years of 2000 to 2020. Seven databases were used in the search. The study’s demographics are Asian male nurses. Alongside the findings, their working experiences in hospitals, through questionnaires and interviews were included. Fourteen articles were selected and appraised by either using the Joanna Briggs Institute’s Risk of Bias Checklists or Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results: With the application of Bronfenbrenner’s Socio- Ecological Framework, five themes have been addressed to discuss factors that Asian male nurses would stay or leave the profession: Personal interest and personality; Peer support & inequality in workplace; Organisational identity & support; Career profession & satisfaction; Social-cultural influences. Implications: Asian males still largely have neutral and divided perceptions over their nursing careers. While being extrinsically motivated, intrinsic motivation in Asian males remains unclear. From highlighting specific retention issues on Asian male nurses, hospitals and their employees in return could further review and strengthened current workplace policies to further strengthen retention levels of Asian male nurses. Conclusion: Current evidence has suggested that Asian males still have neutral or negative perceptions about being in the nursing profession. Mostly driven by extrinsic factors, it could either intrinsically influenced males positively or negatively. Moreover, being the minority, additional support is needed from the workplace to society.