Genetics and Nursing: The Interface in Education, Research, and Practice

Abstract

Genetics is affecting all of health care, including nursing. The way in which nurses think about planning health care must be seen now through a “genetic eye” or lens, and nurses must learn to “think genetically.” While efforts to integrate genetics into nursing began in earnest in the early 1980s, this effort did not accelerate until the mid-1990s. Before nursing can fully incorporate genetic knowledge into education and practice in a meaningful way, the ways in which genetics will influence health care must be understood. The basic knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed by health professionals are discussed as well as their integration into education and practice. Opportunities for nursing research in genetics are presented as are possible directions. Recommendations for facilitating the integration of genetics into nursing education, practice, and research are also presented.