Undergraduate thesis (BS in Nursing) -- Foundation University, 2025

Includes bibliographical references and appendices

AABSTRACT
The nursing profession remains influenced by gender-based stereotypes, particularly in
pediatric care, a field traditionally associated with feminine attributes such as nurturing and
emotional sensitivity. This study aimed to understand the essence of the lived experiences of
male nurses working in pediatric settings and to answer the grand tour question: "What is the
lived experience of male nurses in pediatric wards?"
Using Husserl's descriptive phenomenology, the study employed snowball sampling an
conducted face-to-face and online interviews with nine (9) male nurses, each with at least six
months of experience in pediatric care across hospitals in the Negros Island Region. Open-ended
questions guided the interviews, and Colaizzi's method of data analysis was applied to extract
significant themes from the narratives.
A total of twenty-four (24) clustered themes were identified and grouped into seven (7)
emergent themes: (1) Gender Stereotypes and Role Expectations, (2) Emotional Burden and
Resilience, (3) Technical Comnpetence and Clinical Challenges, (4) Communication and Rapport
with Patients and Families, (5) Personal Growth and Transformation, (6) Workplace Dynamics
and Support, and (7) Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health Strategies.
The findings revealed that male nurses in pediatric settings face unique professional and
emotional challenges stemming from gender bias, clinical demands, and societal expectations.
Despite these obstacles, they demonstrated adaptability, emotional strength, and personal growth
through meaningful patient interactions and support systems. The study calls for increased
institutional awareness and inclusive practices that support gender diversity and emotional
well-being in pediatric nursing environments.