Nursing in the Genomic Era

Genomics: how is it relevant to nurses?
As nurses, the term 'genomics' might seem unfamiliar, but in reality nurses are vital to the delivery of genomic medicine and are already contributing to incredible advances in treatment and care.

Like genetics, genomics also looks at DNA, but improved technology means we can now read all of the information in a person’s or organism’s DNA at once, and use it to build a clearer picture of health and disease. This is leading to changes in the way we diagnose, treat and care for our patients and their families.

How do nurses contribute?
Nurses have more contact with patients than anyone else and are vital to the healthcare team.

Nurses collaborate
- Work together and often lead and guide others – important in the adoption of new practices
- Often relay information or escalate concerns of a genomic nature to colleagues or doctors
- Represent patients and their families at meetings or support groups
- Hands-on: whether it’s taking samples, administering drugs or managing infection control, the work of nurses is an important part of genomic medicine

Nurses communicate
- Explain to patients what genomic or genetic testing is, why particular samples need to be taken, and what will be done with those samples
- Often, through conversation, become aware of a family history that should be reported, such as of cancer or a genetic condition
- Answer questions and reassure patients about treatment, or direct them to more information
- Use genomic information to empower people to think positively and manage their lifestyle appropriately.

Nurses observe
For example, they might:
- notice adverse drug reactions;
- spot the signs of a genetic condition;
- recognise that someone’s eligible for a research project or drug trial; or
- notice a patient is struggling to understand or cope with new genomic information.

The delivery of a world-leading genomic medicine service will not be possible without the work carried out by nurses across the health service every single day.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Health Education England's Genomics Education Programme is developing a substantial education programme to inform healthcare professionals about the impact of genomics on clinical practice.

For more information visit https://www.genomicseducation.hee.nhs.uk