Marsha Weiner MSN, RN, CNE
DNP Health Systems Leadership Sarasota, Florida
Assessing Genetic and Genomic Competencies of Registered Nurses Working in Critical Care Units in Acute Care Hospitals in Florida Introduction and Background: Knowledge and skills in genetics and genomics (genetics/ genomics) are becoming increasingly important for all registered nurses (RNs) in the frontline of care, including those working in critical care units. The Essentials of Genetic and Genomic Nursing Competencies establish the minimal knowledge and skills expected of all practicing nurses. The aim of this study was to assess the genetic/genomic competencies of RNs working in critical care units in hospitals across Florida, compare this with the essential competencies expected of all practicing RNs, and provide information upon which educational programs in genetics and genomics for nurses could be built. Design: Registered nurses from a Florida Board of Nursing electronic mailing list were sent an invitation to participate if they were working in a critical care unit in a Florida hospital. Methods: Qualitative and quantitative data were gathered using an online electronic survey. Results: One hundred ninety-six nurses completed the survey with a completion rate of 38%. Discussion: Although a large majority of respondents were confident in their perceived knowledge and use of genetics/genomics in patient care, half reported lack of understanding of common disease genetics, confidence in counseling and referral, and/or use of family health history. Conclusion: Research in genetics/genomics is generating new understanding of genetic contributions to many common complex diseases seen in critical care units. Translating this research into practice involves nurses having knowledge and skills associated with genetic competency. Nurse leaders in practice and academic settings need to develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs that provide nurses with these competencies.
Major Professor: Roxanne Hauber, BSN, MSN, PhD
28