In Response to: A diversified profession
Dear Dr. Gellinas:
I agree with the statement that more men in nursing supports population and workforce health (Kennedy J. A diversified profession. American Nurse Journal. 2024;19(6)). The strategies suggested by Dr. Kennedy to attract more men into nursing, including designation of nursing as a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) degree have merit.
While 12.6% of RNs and 10.2% of nurse practitioners are men, 47% of 61,000 Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) in the U.S. are males, which reflects historic trends in CRNA gender distribution. Market demand for CRNAs is high, with employment forecasted to grow 12% by 2031.
The cost effectiveness and quality of care provided by CRNAs bode well for the future of this specialty which dates to the American Civil War. In addition to the salary and autonomy associated with the CRNA role, job satisfaction is high: 95% of CRNAs report that they are satisfied or very satisfied with their career choice.
Michael Kremer, PhD, CRNA, CHSE, FNAP, FAAN
Chicago, IL