Assessing Genomic Competencies: Insights From the Genetics and Genomics Nursing Practice Survey (GGNPS)

In ICU settings, genomic information can contribute to diagnostic clarification, individualized treatment planning, medication optimization, and appropriate referral to specialized genetic services. Critically ill patients frequently present with complex multisystem conditions, inherited disorders, or unexplained clinical manifestations that may have underlying genetic components. Consequently, genomic literacy among ICU nurses is particularly important to support family history assessment, recognition of genetic risk factors, patient education, and genomics-informed clinical decision-making. However, translating genomic knowledge into effective nursing practice requires not only foundational genomic knowledge but also positive attitudes, adequate confidence, and strong clinical decision-making skills among nurses.

This study evaluates the knowledge, attitudes, receptivity, confidence, and practices related to genetics and genomics among registered nurses working in ICUs in Amman, Jordan.

A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted with 229 ICU nurses recruited conveniently from three hospitals in Amman. Participants completed the Genetics and Genomics in Nursing Practice Survey (GGNPS).

The Jordanian nurses demonstrated adequate knowledge/competencies of genetics and genomics concepts, with an average score of 66.9% on the competency subscale. They had a positive attitude toward integrating genetics into their practice and exhibited high confidence in accessing and sharing genetic information. Clinical application remained limited, with 82.1% of providers rarely or never collecting a comprehensive family history. Adoption of genetics and genomics in practice was influenced by providers' intent to expand their knowledge and their perceptions of the value and relevance of family history in patient care. Most nurses expressed a desire to learn more about genetics, especially if supported by senior nurses. A significant positive correlation was found between knowledge and confidence scores (r = 0.197, p = 0.003), indicating that nurses with higher levels of genomic knowledge reported greater confidence in their ability to discuss common genetic diseases and family history.

While nurses possessed adequate knowledge and positive attitudes, their practical application of genetic information, particularly in family history assessment, was limited. A strong desire for further, peer-supported education was observed. These findings emphasize the need for targeted training programs to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, ultimately enhancing the quality of genetic-informed nursing care in the ICU.