Genetics and genomics integration into undergraduate nursing education

Abstract

Genetic and genomic science is redefining the understanding of the continuum of human health and illness. The required competency of providing essential information, support, guidance and education pertaining to genetic conditions is expected for all levels of initial pre-licensure preparation. How a nursing curriculum prepares these student nurses to function at their highest capacity depends on how genetics and genomics are integrated into the curriculum. Integrating genetics and genomics as a stand-alone course needs to be innovative and creative while teaching the scientific content. By exploring innovative and creative formats, nurse educators will learn how to enhance their students learning process to become active participants, engaged and focused as they learn to apply their knowledge of genetics and genomics. This paper will discuss practical suggestions for integrating a stand-alone genetic course for baccalaureate nursing students or for threading genetic content through-out the curricula.