Descriptive survey of Summer Genetics Institute nurse graduates in the USA

The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical, research, educational, and professional activities that nurses are engaged in following participation in a 2 month intramural genetics training program. An online survey was administered in 2010 to graduates of the program sponsored by the US National Institute of Nursing Research from 2000 to 2009, in Bethesda, Maryland, USA. The electronic, voluntary survey was sent to 189 graduates via email. The survey included demographic characteristics, educational preparation, professional roles and responsibilities, and attitudes about genetic testing and privacy issues. Of the 95 graduates responding to the survey, 74% had doctorates and 70% were advanced practice nurses. All respondents reported incorporating genetics knowledge into daily clinical, academic, or research practices since completing the program, with 72% reporting being involved in genetically-focused research (52% with research funding), 32% incorporating genetics into patient care, and 79% providing genetics education. Respondents working in a hospital setting or academic institution were more likely to desire additional training in genetics. National Institute of Nursing Research graduates have successfully integrated genomics into a variety of nursing practices.