Genetic testing of children: confluence or collision between parents and professionals?

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Candidate Gene Testing in Clinical Cohort Studies with Multiplexed Genotyping and Mass Spectrometry
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John G Twomey1

  • 1MGH Institute of Health Professions, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02129, USA. jtwomey@partners.org

AACN Clinical Issues
|December 11, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Genetic testing for minor children raises ethical concerns, but strict regulations lack supporting data. Alternative ethical theories offer guidance for nurses navigating this complex area of genetic care.

Area of Science:

  • Nursing
  • Genetics
  • Bioethics

Background:

  • Nursing faces challenges in leading genetic knowledge development.
  • The profession must advocate for proper use of genetic care practices.
  • Genetic testing of minor children presents largely unregulated challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the ethical considerations of genetic testing in minor children.
  • To argue against strict regulations due to limited supporting data.
  • To explore alternative ethical theories for nursing guidance.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on genetic testing of minors.
  • Analysis of psychological and bioethical concerns.
  • Application of alternative ethical theories.

Main Results:

  • Limited data exists to support strict regulations on pediatric genetic testing.
  • Parental choice in testing minor children is a contentious issue.
  • Alternative ethical frameworks can guide nursing practice.

Conclusions:

  • Strict regulations for genetic testing of minors are not well-supported by current data.
  • Nurses can utilize alternative ethical theories to navigate complex genetic care decisions.
  • Further research is needed to inform guidelines on genetic testing for children.

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