Is the word enfermeira the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes

The only differences between "enfermeira" in Brazilian Portuguese and Continental Portuguese are in pronunciation. The spelling, meaning, and grammatical gender are identical in both variants.

In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are generally more open and clearly articulated. The rhythm is more "syllable-timed," meaning each syllable receives a relatively similar amount of time, making the word sound more melodic.

In Continental Portuguese, the pronunciation is more "stress-timed." This involves significant vowel reduction, where unstressed vowels (like the "e" in the middle of the word) are often shortened, neutralized, or almost swallowed entirely. This gives the word a more "clipped" or "closed" sound compared to the Brazilian version.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A enfermeira está verificando os sinais vitais. (The nurse is checking the vital signs.)
2. Eu preciso falar com a enfermeira, por favor. (I need to speak with the nurse, please.)
3. A enfermeira é muito dedicada ao trabalho dela. (The nurse is very dedicated to her work.)
4. Minha irmã trabalha como enfermeira no hospital. (My sister works as a nurse at the hospital.)
5. A enfermeira explicou como tomar o remédio. (The nurse explained how to take the medicine.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. A enfermeira está a verificar os sinais vitais. (The nurse is checking the vital signs.)
2. Peça à enfermeira, por favor. (Ask the nurse, please.)
3. A enfermeira é muito dedicada ao seu trabalho. (The nurse is very dedicated to her work.)
4. A minha irmã trabalha como enfermeira no hospital. (My sister works as a nurse at the hospital.)
5. A enfermeira explicou como tomar o medicamento. (The nurse explained how to take the medication.)