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Promoting integration of genetics core competencies into entry-level nursing curricula
Catherine Y Read1, Ann M Dylis, Sandra R Mott
1Boston College, William F. Connell School of Nursing, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA. readca@bc.edu
The Journal of Nursing Education
|September 4, 2004
Summary
Nurse educators are integrating genetics education into nursing programs using core competencies. A 5-year curriculum review shows progress in incorporating essential genetic concepts for future nurses.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Genetics in Healthcare
- Curriculum Development
Background:
- Increasing demand for genetics knowledge in nursing practice.
- Need for standardized genetics competencies in undergraduate nursing.
- Existing baccalaureate nursing curricula often lack comprehensive genetics content.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a 5-year initiative to integrate genetics education into a baccalaureate nursing curriculum.
- To assess the nursing curriculum's alignment with published genetics core competencies.
- To provide a model for other nursing programs seeking to enhance genetics education.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal, 5-year curriculum integration project.
- Development and application of a survey tool based on established genetics core competencies.
- Analysis of survey data to evaluate curriculum changes and identify gaps.
Main Results:
- Successful integration of genetics content across multiple nursing courses over 5 years.
- Curriculum survey demonstrated improved, but not complete, alignment with genetics core competencies.
- Identified specific areas within the curriculum that require further enhancement.
Conclusions:
- Integrating genetics education into nursing curricula is feasible and beneficial.
- Genetics core competencies provide a valuable framework for curriculum assessment and planning.
- Ongoing evaluation and refinement are necessary to ensure comprehensive genetics preparedness for nursing graduates.