Nurses' Performance on the Genomic Nursing Inventory: A Cross-Sectional Study in Crete, Greece

Area of Science:

• Genomic Medicine
• Nursing Education

Background:

• Genomics is vital for modern healthcare, impacting diagnostics, risk assessment, and treatment.
• Integrating genomics into nursing practice presents challenges for healthcare professionals.
• Genomic literacy among nurses is essential for effective patient care and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate and validate the Genomic Nursing Concept Inventory (GNCI) for the Greek context.
• To assess the current level of genomic knowledge among nurse practitioners in Greece.
• To identify specific areas of genomic knowledge deficits in the nursing workforce.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted with 324 nurses in Crete, Greece.
• The Genomic Nursing Concept Inventory (GNCI), a 31-item questionnaire, was translated and validated.
• Statistical analyses included reliability testing (Cronbach's alpha) and confirmatory factor analysis.

Main Results:

• The Greek version of the GNCI showed acceptable reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.622).
• Confirmatory factor analysis supported a one-factor model for the GNCI.
• Nurses achieved a mean score of 30.1% correct answers, indicating significant knowledge gaps.
• Understanding was stronger in basic genomics and mutations than in inheritance and healthcare applications.

Conclusions:

• The GNCI was successfully translated and validated for use with Greek nurses.
• Significant gaps in genomic knowledge exist among Greek nurse practitioners.
• Urgent need for targeted educational interventions and curriculum integration to enhance genomic literacy and improve patient care.