The image of nursing perceived by the society in the Covid‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract Background Although nursing has made progress as a profession, there are still some negative myths to be dispelled. Purpose This descriptive, cross‐sectional study was conducted to determine the nursing image perceived by the society during the Covid‐19 pandemic. Methods The research population consisted of 663 people who were not in the nursing profession in Turkey. The data were collected with a sociodemographic data form that was prepared by the researchers and a questionnaire that contained questions on the image of nursing. The McNemar Test was used for statistical analysis. Results Individuals have positive views towards the nursing profession compared to the prepandemic period. Nursing is accepted as a profession that is well known (82.8%), respected (69.8%) and difficult working conditions (88.2%) by individuals in the society (p < .05). However, nursing profession is still perceived as “doctors' assistant” (71.5%). Conclusion Although nurses are more visible during the pandemic period and there are positive changes in public perception of the nursing profession, some unfortunate traditional perceptions persist.