Nursing and precision oncology: Scoping review

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) integration has established Molecular Tumor Boards (MTBs) as the standard for personalized oncology care. However, specific nursing genomic competencies and clinical functions required remain poorly defined. This scoping review maps existing evidence to identify essential genomic knowledge, specialized nursing roles, and educational or regulatory barriers to integration.

Following JBI methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, six databases and grey literature were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2025. The review analyzed 24 sources, including 18 scientific publications and 6 national regulatory documents, focusing on nurses in oncology settings.

The synthesis yielded six core thematic categories. First, theoretical foundations emphasize navigating the interface between somatic and germline testing; second, operational efficiency highlights the "Precision Medicine Steward" reducing turnaround times by 50%; third, advanced clinical management involves interpreting NGS reports and managing targeted toxicities; fourth, patient advocacy positions nurses as knowledge integrators humanizing biomarker data; fifth, policy frameworks demonstrate Italian legislation institutionalizing MTBs; and finally, systemic barriers reveal persistent genomic literacy gaps and curricular deficits.

Oncology nursing is shifting toward specialized genomic stewardship. While nurses are pivotal for system efficiency, integration remains hindered by educational deficits requiring urgent intervention. To ensure safe, equitable, and evidence-based precision care, core genomic competencies must be integrated into oncology nursing curricula. Furthermore, standardized clinical guidelines and the formal recognition of specialized roles, such as the Precision Medicine Steward, are essential for the effective implementation of precision oncology.