Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 21, 2026

Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Case for blending pedigrees, genograms and ecomaps: nursing's contribution to the 'big picture'
Sharon Olsen1, Sharon Dudley-Brown, Patricia McMullen
1Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore MD 21205, USA. olsen@son.jhmi.edu
Abstract:
In the 21st century, knowledge of genetics is closely linked to the ability to provide good care for all patients, not just the few with uncommon genetic diseases. The authors suggest that what is needed in nursing is a comprehensive, three generation pedigree that records a patient's medical, social and environmental history, thereby communicating a 'big picture' scenario for holistic nursing care. The case is made for blending pedigrees, genograms and ecomaps. Such a tool can guide risk factor identification and inform patient and family clinical decisions vis-a-vis care management strategies, psychosocial support and education for reproductive decisions, risk reduction, and the prevention, screening, diagnosis, referral and long-term management of disease. Pedigrees, genograms and ecomaps are defined, and their clinical application and reliability are described. A case example that blends these tools is presented. Ethical, legal, educational and research implications are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Pedigree Analysis
Pedigree Analysis
Methods of Documentation VI: Case Management Model
For example, a patient with a chronic illness...
Formats for Nursing Documentation
Nursing Assessment Form:
• A nursing assessment form is a foundational document that captures detailed patient data from physical assessments and nursing histories.
• It includes patient demographics, medical history, current medications, vital...
Ethical Dilemmas I
Let us explore some examples to understand the potentially complex moral decisions nurses face.
Take the case of caring for minors, particularly in areas related to reproductive...
Methods of Documentation III: PIE
