Nurses most trusted profession in new Gallup survey, UB nursing dean says, because they spend most time with patients

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Nurses once again ranked at the top of 23 professions in Gallup’s 2023 Honesty and Ethics poll.

Released on Monday, the survey found 78% of Americans rated nurses’ honesty and ethical standards as “very high” or “high.” It marks the 22nd consecutive year nurses topped the annual survey, which includes physicians, engineers, veterinarians and other professions.

Annette Wysocki, dean of the University at Buffalo School of Nursing, says the survey results reflect the critical role that nurses play in health care settings.

“Nurses are the persons who spend the most time with the patient, and we’re the ones they share the most vulnerable information with,” says Wysocki, who is an expert on delayed healing on chronic wounds, among other topics. “When they’re in these vulnerable situations, patients tell nurses information they’ve never shared with any other health care professional.”

She adds: “During the most vulnerable times of their lives, they know nurses will advocate for them; nurses have the most contact with all other health care professions giving care to a patient, so we’re able to be a patient’s voice and navigate the layers in order to do what’s best for them.”

The new survey echoes a similar Gallup survey released last month regarding Americans’ assessment of care provided in U.S. health care system. Nurses received the best rating, with 82% of respondents saying they provide excellent or good medical care. Physicians ranked second at 69%.

Founded in 1936, the University at Buffalo School of Nursing provides a high-quality nursing education in a dynamic university setting. Students gain vital nursing skills and knowledge through academic programming and research that emphasizes community partnerships, interprofessional education, and global health, including hands-on experiences that enhance professional skills and empower nurses to advocate for health equity across diverse populations.

Programs are designed to prepare students for expanded professional nursing roles in an increasingly complex and evolving health care environment. Comprehensive training is provided to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for the delivery of high-quality care across settings and populations. And, as part of a research-intensive institution, nursing faculty and students engage in interprofessional research and scholarship that address health care challenges, contribute to nursing knowledge and have a meaningful impact on health care policy, practice and systems.