9 Major Misconceptions About Nursing

Nursing may be one of the oldest and most well-known professions, but public knowledge of this growing field still holds some misunderstandings. Below are nine common misconceptions about the nursing profession and the truths behind them.

Myth #1: Only Women Are Nurses

There have always been significantly more women than men in nursing, and this remains true today. However, the numbers show that more men are entering the nursing profession. According to the National Nursing Workforce Survey, men accounted for approximately 10% of registered nurses and 9% of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in 2024.

Myth #2: Advancing Your Nursing Career Means You Must Go Back to School Full-Time

Some nurses leave the profession temporarily and go back to school full-time. But countless others continue to work while they further their education online.

Once you’ve earned your registered nurse license, you may pursue an online RN-to-BSN or a master’s degree in nursing. Additionally, plenty of specialty degree and certificate programs exist, providing the opportunity to focus on your passion while increasing your income potential.

Myth #3: Nurses Are Only Found in Hospitals

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, 59% of registered nurses in 2024 worked in state, local, or private hospitals. Many RNs also work in nonhospital settings, including physicians' offices, home health care services, nursing and residential care facilities, and government organizations.

Further, not all nurses treat patients. Some may manage a facility and oversee the nursing staff, while others may work in a customer service role at a health care corporation, and many enter the teaching profession. There are many career possibilities in nursing.

Myth #4: Nurses Work Long Hours

Without a doubt, a career in nursing can be demanding. However, this growing field also offers great flexibility. For as many nursing career options as are available, there are nearly as many variations in work schedules. While those in private practice will work typical office hours, others may work shifts of 10–12 hours for 3 to 4 days, with the following 3 to 4 days off. A working parent may choose to work nights to be home with children after school, while a colleague may prefer weekends.

Myth #5: It Doesn't Matter Where You Go for Your Nursing Education

There are many universities and colleges offering certificates and undergraduate and advanced degrees. However, not all universities are alike. Make sure that the school is accredited and the nursing professors are experts in their specific areas of instruction. Ideally, faculty will have vast experience in the field; they may even still work as a nurse while they teach.

When looking at nursing schools to determine where to begin or advance your nursing education, ask yourself:

• Does the college or university offer online nursing programs?
• Is the program flexible or part-time so you can continue working while pursuing your degree?
• Does the program align with your career goals?

Myth #6: Nurses Lack Autonomy

It may be a common misconception that nurses are limited in the decisions they can make without the input of a physician. However, autonomy in nursing is one of the ethical principles of nursing and refers partly to the nurse's ability to provide care while independently making decisions within their scope of practice. Not everything needs to be run past a doctor. Examples include the ability to make quick decisions in an emergency situation, adjusting a patient’s oxygen levels in postoperative care, and managing “as needed” medications.

In addition, nurses who earn advanced credentials, such as nurse practitioner (NP) or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), often have greater clinical autonomy and decision-making authority than registered nurses at the bachelor's degree level.

According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), more than half of U.S. states and territories have adopted Full Practice Authority (FPA), which allows NPs “to evaluate patients, diagnose, order and interpret diagnostic tests and initiate and manage treatments — including prescribing medications — under the exclusive licensure authority of the state board of nursing.” As a result, NPs play an increasingly important role in expanding access to health care and addressing provider shortages, particularly in underserved communities.

Myth #7: All Nurses Are the Same

This nursing myth couldn't be further from the truth. Differences in education alone are vast. An associate degree is the entry-level education for a registered nurse, but a nurse may also have a bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degree. According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, about 73% of nurses in 2024 reported holding a bachelor’s or higher degree. As the career and health care field itself continues to evolve, the role of a nurse and the various segments within the profession continue to change and grow.

In fact, the role of NP, which requires a master’s degree in nursing, is the third fastest-growing job in the nation, the BLS reports. Overall employment of NPs is projected to grow 40% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Beyond varying educational levels, nurses may also choose to focus on a specialty, such as pediatrics, oncology, dermatology, or cardiology. They may also pursue professional certifications, which can enhance their expertise, expand career opportunities, and increase earning potential.

>>Related Reading: The Comprehensive List of Nursing Specialties

Myth #8: Nursing Is Only About Basic Physical Care

Yes, nurses draw blood, clean wounds, and change bedpans, but their responsibilities extend far beyond these tasks. Nurses are committed to providing holistic patient care, which means addressing not only patients’ physical health needs but also their emotional, psychological, and, when appropriate, spiritual well-being. By offering compassion, support, education, and advocacy, nurses play a vital role in helping patients and their families navigate illness, recovery, and end-of-life care.

The American Nurses Association describes nursing as “both an art and a science; a heart and a mind. At its heart lies a fundamental respect for human dignity and an intuition for a patient’s needs.” Many nurses consider themselves public servants and believe that nursing is a calling.

Myth #9: Due to a Nursing Shortage, It's Easy to Get a Job

Although it's true that a nursing shortage offers a great deal of potential for those looking to start a career or make a change, this doesn't mean that facilities are any less prudent in their hiring practices. Hiring managers still look for a strong educational background from an accredited school such as Purdue Global. The more experience you have, including unpaid experience like internships, the more appealing a candidate you will be. In addition, skills such as compassion and the ability to work well with others can help you land a great job.

Earn a Nursing Degree Online With Purdue Global

If you’re looking to further your nursing career, consider Purdue Global. We offer several online degrees in nursing, giving you the flexibility to continue working while going to school. The field is growing, so now is a good time to investigate how additional education could help you meet your career goals. To learn more, request more information.