Utilization of genetic knowledge in pediatric nursing practice

Many clients with potential genetic conditions are leaving clinics and hospitals without the conditions being recognized. Nurses knowledgeable in genetics can change this by using skills in genetic history-taking and dysmorphology assessment to recognize signs of genetic conditions and birth defects. Nurses can also positively impact clients' health by participating in follow-up care after a genetic evaluation and counseling. During any interaction, nurses need to be advocates for genetic clients.