I had to share my outrage after reading your editorial about the Virgin Mobile ads ("Fed up with Sexist Stereotypes," Editor's Note, June 2005). Sexual stereotyping of nurses has to stop!! These stereotypes discourage potential nurses (particularly men) and contribute to an atmosphere of disrespect. Desexualizing the nursing image is a crucial part of building the strength the profession needs to overcome the current shortage. These ads target the very generation we need to recruit into nursing.

I've written to Virgin Mobile and I call on all nurses to help put an end to sexist stereotypes. Collectively we have a powerful voice, but that voice needs to be heard loud and clear. Respect yourselves and your profession enough to stand up for it and fight back.

COLLEEN A. FINNEGAN, RN

West Islip, N.Y.

I cringe every time I see any stereotype of nurses, whether it's the nurse in the skimpy "uniform" or the nurse as the uneducated helper. We've all worked hard for our nursing licenses. We must protect the title and the image. We owe that to ourselves and the next generation of nurses.

KATHY SIEU, RN

San Ramon, Calif.