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The work of specialist nurses in the mainstreaming of germline genomic testing in cancer: an investigation.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Specialist nurses are increasingly working in the mainstreaming of germline genomic testing in cancer. AIMS: The study aimed to investigate the work of specialist nurses in the mainstreaming of germline genomic testing in cancer, with a focus on Lynch syndrome, and to consider the future of genomics in nursing. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 12 specialist nurses and three genetic counsellors, and thematic analysis was carried out. FINDINGS: Prominent themes arising from the data were: the capability and capacity of specialty-based clinical nurse specialists, for whom genomics is an added part of their wider role, to deliver genomic testing; and whether these specialty-based nurses or specialist genomic nurses, who work only in genomics, are best placed to deliver genomic testing. CONCLUSION: When planning service provision in the mainstreaming of genetic testing, the capacity and capability of specialty-based clinical nurse specialists should be considered alongside the possible need for specialist genomic nurses.

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BibTeXRIS

Nathan Vernon. 2026-06-10. The work of specialist nurses in the mainstreaming of germline genomic testing in cancer: an investigation.. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2025.0168

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