An ethical assessment framework for addressing global genetic issues in clinical practice

Area of Science:

• Nursing Ethics
• Genetic Counseling
• Bioethics

Background:

• Ethical decision-making is crucial for nurses in clinical practice.
• The Ethical Assessment Framework (EAF) provides action skills for ethical decision-making.
• Genetic advancements present unique ethical challenges for nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate nurses' perceptions of the importance and preparedness for EAF action skills.
• To identify prevalent genetic ethical issues encountered by nurses.
• To assess the role of the EAF in addressing genetic ethical dilemmas.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, exploratory study was conducted.
• Participants included members of the Oncology Nursing Society's Cancer Genetics Special Interest Group (n=34) and the International Society of Nurses in Genetics (n=101).
• Surveys assessed perceptions of EAF skills and genetic ethical issues.

Main Results:

• All EAF ethical action skills were deemed important for decision-making.
• Nurses reported minimal skill proficiency in 60% of EAF steps.
• Confidentiality, managed care, and informed consent were major concerns.

Conclusions:

• The EAF can enhance nurses' ethical decision-making expertise and address genetic ethical issues.
• Patient confidentiality emerged as the primary ethical concern.
• Nurses require enhanced genetic knowledge and ethical skills to support patients effectively.