A multifaceted genetics educational program for nursing faculty

Abstract

The 1998 Statement on the Scope and Standards of Genetics Clinical Nursing Practice asserts that all nurses should be able to identify, refer, support and care for persons affected by, or at risk for manifesting or transmitting, genetic conditions. Nurses also need to play a significant role in the management of genetic information. However, results from multiple surveys conducted over the past 26 years have repeatedly demonstrated that nurses receive limited genetics education in their basic nursing programs. Nursing faculty's limited educational preparation in genetics is a significant barrier to increasing genetics content in nursing curriculum. The Summer Genetics Program for Nursing Faculty was developed to address the genetics continuing educational needs of nursing faculty. One component of the program was a 12-day Genetics Summer Institute (SI). In 1997. 26 nursing faculty attended the first SI and in 1998, 34 additional nursing faculty attended the second SI. These 60 participants represented 59 nursing schools from 25 states and the District of Columbia. Change in participants genetics knowledge was measured using a 35 item pre / post-test Both participant groups demonstrated statistically significant improvement (p<0.01) in post-test scores. Follow up of 1997 participants has occurred twice since the first SI to assess participants progress toward increasing genetics content in their curricula. Results indicate that 75% used information and educational resources provided during and following the SI in their own and/or fellow faculty's existing lectures. Nearly all discussed the importance of genetics with their school administrators and fellow faculty. Over 80% pursued further genetics continuing education. Seven of the 1997 participants developed a genetics course. Twice yearly follow-up is underway for the 1998 participants and will continue for the 1997 participants. This program was funded by the NHGRI's Ethical. Legal and Social Implications Research Program at NIH.