The stewardship model: current viability for genetic biobank practice development

The "stewardship model" of ethics relationships is a conceptual framework initially proposed by Jeffers in Advances in Nursing Science, 24(2), 2001. It conceptualized ethical responsibilities in the practice of systematic collection and storage of biospecimens in biobanks for future healthcare genetic research. Since the article's publication 8 years ago, genetic biobanks have grown in number around the world and discernible biobank relational conceptualizations were published. Nursing leadership adopted competency standards for all genetic nursing practices. The involvement of nurses has increased and is projected for further significant increase as biobank practices emerge from research into clinical care settings. This assessment of current viability of this previously established stewardship model offers fresh insights to existing and future nursing research and practice. The purpose of this article was to analyze the original stewardship model's components, the relational parties, and characteristics; by contrasting those with proposed conceptualizations and existing biobank practices developed subsequent to its publication. The model's current viability and theoretical development status are assessed for its ability to support a future nursing evidence base for best practices. Proposals for the model's expansion are suggested.