| The recent explosion of genetic knowledge and related technology, generated by the Human Genome Project, has created new opportunities for preventing or treating disease and promoting health. Because all healthcare professionals will care for individuals with genetic related issues, the Institute of Medicine and the director of the Human Genome Project, Dr. Francis Collins, have strongly recommended that nurses incorporate genetics in their delivery of care.;It is implied by all that the nursing profession is knowledgeable in genetics and the impact it has on healthcare. Almost forty years ago, researchers made the first recommendation for the inclusion of human genetics content in nursing curricula. More recently, the International Society of Nurses in Genetics and the National Coalition for Health Professional Education in Genetics in accordance with the American Nurses Association developed standards of care and core competencies for all nursing educational programs, regarding nursing practice and genetics. However, numerous studies, past and present, have revealed the paucity of genetics in nursing education.;The associate degree nursing program at Delaware Technical and Community College, Owens campus, reflected the research outcomes identified. Also, the recommended standards of care in genetics were not being addressed. The purpose of this study was to increase genetic content in the nursing program with the goal of improving nursing graduates' and faculty's knowledge of genetics.;Through interdisciplinary collaborative efforts, a genetics focus group was formed and identified courses to integrate genetics. The second-level maternal-newborn course was revised to include lectures, clinical sites, student papers, and presentations related to genetics. Faculty interviews provided insight into professional development for faculty as well as registered nurses employed in Delaware's Sussex County and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.;Although great strides have been made in improving nursing graduates' and faculty's knowledge of genetics, this is the beginning phase of an ongoing process. The inclusion of genetics in the nursing program aligns with the college's philosophy of "being on the cutting edge of technology." To keep abreast of the rapid advances that will continue in genetics, recommendations have also been made. |
