Pedigree analysis: One teaching strategy to incorporate genetics into a full FNP program

The successful completion of the genome project in April 2003 and explosion of genetic knowledge is impacting healthcare at a dramatic rate. All healthcare providers need to update themselves on genetics in order to provide comprehensive care. This article describes a national grant obtained to educate faculty regarding incorporating genetics into courses. It also presents an innovate method for incorporating genetics into a full Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) curriculum. Student responses and guidelines for one assignment are included. Utilizing this type of assignment in FNP courses is beneficial to both students and faculty. With more FNPs assessing patterns for illness in families, primary prevention and earlier intervention in primary care can be achieved.