The Important Role of Nurses on Television

Nurses play an important role in television shows and public interviews, on screens and behind the scenes as advisors. Therefore, it is imperative that the role is depicted in the correct light, offering information to capably represent the nursing profession and public education. Many television dramas over the years have portrayed nurses from the doctor-chasing young nurse, championing admirable traits of kindness and care more than tertiary knowledge, to the multitalented advanced practice nurse representing the profession with kindness, care, and advocacy along with advanced knowledge, leadership skills, and diplomacy.

The medium of television, in both dramas and news interviews, allow people to gain insight into the many roles of nurses. Factual concepts and drama scenes are captured, and these portrayals can change the way people see the profession. Nurses in real life, and in television shows, can shape the future of health care, which is the theme of the 2026 Australian College of Nursing’s National Nursing Forum.

This paper will review nursing roles through several television shows from 1970–2026. It will also discuss why nurses must advocate for their patients and their profession in the media, as their portrayal on television must reflect the changes in current society.