Predictors and outcomes of genomic knowledge among nurses in a middle eastern country: A cross-sectional study

Genomics has received significant attention in recent years. Nurses can uniquely contribute to the field of genomics and improve genomic healthcare. However, they lack the necessary knowledge to accomplish this, impacting their confidence, willingness, and ability to implement genomics healthcare negatively. Given Oman's unique healthcare context, its prospective genomics application, and the global trend toward genomic competency, it is essential to gauge nurses' genomic knowledge as basis for equipping them.

This study assessed the genomic knowledge among nurses in the Sultanate of Oman. It also explored the predictors and outcomes of their genomic knowledge.

This study used a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional design.

Nurses from four public hospitals in Muscat Governorate, Sultanate of Oman were recruited to participate in the study.

A total of 661 out of 700 nurses responded to the pen and paper self-report questionnaire (94 % response rate). Univariate, bivariate, and regression analyses were used for data analysis.

Consistent with international studies, nurses in Oman had low to moderate genomic knowledge. Years of experience in genetics healthcare and working in either the surgical and maternity units were positively associated with higher genomic knowledge. Working in the bone marrow transplant unit and having a family history of consanguinity were associated with poorer genomic knowledge. Higher genomic knowledge was associated with an increased willingness to care for patients with genetic issues, higher confidence in providing genomic healthcare, and a lower intention to pursue continuing education on genomics.

Strategies targeting variables, particularly those that are amenable to interventions, should be developed and implemented to foster genomic knowledge in nurses.