Journal of professional nursing : official journal of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing
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Over time there has been debate within nursing regarding its designation as a professional career or "skilled craftsperson" job. Although the respectability of nursing has always been acknowledged, for some nursing is not considered a high-status career. This qualitative study sought to identify the reasons why women chose to become nurses. ⋯ Paramount was the desire to be of service. The other primary motivator was the need for a practical career that was viewed as satisfying, flexible, accessible in terms of cost of schooling, always in demand, and respectable. When nursing was chosen in the face of family opposition, it was viewed as a calling where one could be of service.