Positive and negative aspects of the public image of nursing

Introduction: Nursing is a profession that has long been troubled with its public image. The public image of nursing appears positive as well as negative aspects. It is based on myths, misconceptions and stereotypes that can affect the choice of nursing as a profession, the employment of nurses, but also on the work of nurses. Aim of research: To determine how many papers on image nurses were published in scientific and professional journals which were available in Nursing/Academic Edition and Medline online database in the period from 2004 to 2008, to analyse access capability of these papers in full-text, give overview of topics, which were to be found in papers on image nurses and categorization of papers. Materials and methods: literature review was used as method. Findings: The total is obtained 153 scientific peer reviewed article in full text. Was overviewed a summaries of articles and selected 21 articles that have similar themes. Conclusion: The public knows little about nursing, in addition to nurses caring for patients. Nurse's image in the public mainly affects the media, other health professionals but also the nurses. The public should be aware of the high level of education and technological competence at all levels.