Nurse stereotypes and sexism: does the profession have a problem?

How covert sexism persists in nursing, whether as inequality in career progression or inappropriate comments – and whatever your gender

• Nurses say sexist behaviour and comments in the workplace come not only from colleagues but also patients and the public
• RCN guidance calls for employers to support staff to speak up, and for training that focuses on the issue
• Advice on challenging sexism when you see or experience it, and bypassing your line manager if they won’t help or listen

Nurses have spoken out about their experiences of sexism at work, including dealing with inappropriate comments, unhelpful gender stereotypes and unequal career prospects.

In a Nursing Standard poll, 43%