Essential Genetic and Genomic Nursing Competencies for the Oncology Nurse
Section snippets
Relevance of Genetics and Genomics to Oncology Care
The utilization of genetics and genomics in oncology nursing practice is relevant to all oncology nurses, regardless of role, setting, specialty, or population. Cancer genetics and genomics provides the scientific basis for understanding the process of carcinogenesis with implications for identifying those at risk, for those diagnosed with cancer, and for those undergoing treatment for cancer (see Fig. 1). Oncology nurses have the potential to influence whether or not cutting-edge research
Scope of Oncology Nursing Practice
The scope of oncology nursing practice is defined through multiple mechanisms, including the scope and standards of practice published by the American Nurses Association5 and by individual state practice acts. Further refinement occurs through specialty nursing organizations. For example, the Oncology Nursing Society defines the scope of practice for oncology nurses6, 7 and the International Society of Nurses in Genetics, Inc., defines practice related to genetics and genomics nursing.8
Building
Competencies
The Essentials of Genetic and Genomic Nursing: Competencies, Curricula Guidelines, and Outcome Indicators, established by consensus, apply to all registered nurses.9 This resource assists the academic and continuing education nurse community to prepare the nursing workforce in genetics/genomics and provides a platform to build tools needed to achieve this goal. Guidance in curriculum design and course development is provided, enhanced by the addition of outcome indicators that consist of
Implications for Practice, Education, and Research
These scenarios illustrate some currently available health care implications of genetic and genomic discoveries. The potential benefits to individuals and their families can best be realized if oncology nurses are aware of, prepared for, and able to competently adopt options for personalized health care into their practice. This will require a commitment by the nurse to become adequately educated and knowledgeable about the relevancy of genetic/genomic information for every patient. Nursing
Conclusion
Oncology nurses have a wonderful opportunity to create the optimal care model for implementation and utilization of emerging genetic/genomic science that will make a difference in outcomes for patients and their families. The Essentials of Genetic and Genomic Nursing9 provides guidance for clinical integration. The case scenarios described illustrate the relevancy, opportunities, and possibilities for advancing oncology nursing competency and thus impacting quality patient care today and for
Jean Jenkins, PhD, RN, FAAN: Senior Clinical Advisor, National Institutes of Health, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD.
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Cited by (0)
Jean Jenkins, PhD, RN, FAAN: Senior Clinical Advisor, National Institutes of Health, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD.