A Clinician's primer in human genetics: what nurses need to know

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Nursing Education

Background:

• Nurses play a crucial role in patient care across all health care settings.
• Adequate knowledge of human genetics is essential for nurses to identify genetic predispositions and conditions.
• Understanding genetic principles supports nurses in guiding patients through genetic diagnostics, treatment, and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide nurses with foundational knowledge of human genetics.
• To establish a basis for understanding the clinical applications of genetic principles, counseling, and emerging technologies.
• To empower nurses to support patients and families in integrating genetic information and technologies.

Main Methods:

• Review of general information on gene structure and function.
• Discussion of metabolic and chromosomal disorders.
• Explanation of genetic inheritance patterns within families.

Main Results:

• Nurses can identify individuals with potential genetic conditions or predispositions.
• Nurses can facilitate access to current genetic diagnostics, treatments, and therapeutics.
• Nurses are empowered to collect family histories and provide genetic information.

Conclusions:

• Foundational knowledge in human genetics is critical for nursing practice.
• Nurses are pivotal in supporting patients and families in navigating genetic information and technologies.
• This knowledge enhances nurses' ability to provide comprehensive, lifelong care.