Genetics knowledge for nurses: necessity or luxury?

Abstract

Senior nurses within frontline NHS Trusts in East Anglia were consulted about their perceptions of the genetics-related knowledge and education required by nurses working in their Trusts. They disagreed with policy decision makers, i.e. the Government and genetics specialists, on the currently necessary knowledge levels. They also did not recognize genetics as an important issue in current everyday nursing activities. The difference in perception also related to the speed with which its presence and importance will increase. Nurses already working under considerable pressure while not perceiving the importance of genetics in everyday practice cannot be expected to willingly absorb new genetics-related knowledge. The National Genetics Education and Development Centre in Birmingham will have to reach out to practitioners and managers throughout the UK and establish a shared platform from which to develop this issue in the future.