Chromosome microarray

Abstract

Over the last half century, knowledge about genetics, genetic testing, and its complexity has fl ourished. Completion of the Human Genome Project provided a foundation upon which the accuracy of genetics, genomics, and integration of bioinformatics knowledge and testing has grown exponentially. What is lagging, however, are efforts to reach and engage nurses about this rapidly changing fi eld. The purpose of this article is to familiarize nurses with several frequently ordered genetic tests including chromosomes and fl uorescence in situ hybridization followed by a comprehensive review of chromosome microarray. It shares the complexity of microarray including how testing is performed and results analyzed. A case report demonstrates how this technology is applied in clinical practice and reveals benefi ts and limitations of this scientifi c and bioinformatics genetic technology. Clinical implications for maternal-child nurses across practice levels are discussed.