Expanding RN Scope of Knowledge-Genetics/Genomics: The New Frontier

Introducing a new competency into nursing practice requires the support of nursing leadership. A knowledge survey was used to assess nurses' knowledge following a yearlong genomics education initiative. Findings indicate that nurses benefit from repeated exposure to genetics-related content. Recommendations from this study include development and implementation of strategies that can be used to prepare nurses at all levels for the application of genetics and genomics. Clinical nurses with knowledge of genetics will be able to implement evidence-based interventions to manage acute and chronic illnesses. These nurses will then be able to engage patients more fully, thereby helping them to understand the relationship of genetics to healthy outcomes.