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Current practice for genetic counselling by nurses: An integrative review
Author(s) -
Barr Jennieffer A.,
Tsai Lily P.,
Welch Anthony,
Faradz Sultana M.H.,
LaneKrebs Katrina,
Howie Virginia,
Hillman Wendy
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
international journal of nursing practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.62
H-Index - 55
eISSN - 1440-172X
pISSN - 1322-7114
DOI - 10.1111/ijn.12629
Subject(s) - credentialing , critical appraisal , scope (computer science) , medline , inclusion (mineral) , genetic counseling , scope of practice , medicine , scopus , nursing , psychology , medical education , alternative medicine , health care , computer science , social psychology , pathology , biology , political science , law , genetics , programming language , economics , economic growth
Abstract Aim To examine current practice of genetic counselling by nurses. Background Recent debate argues that genetic counselling is a specialist advanced practice role, whilst others argue it is the role of all nurses. Current evidence is required to determine if genetic counselling could be included in all nurses' scope of practice. Design Integrative literature review. Data Sources A search of electronic databases (CINHAL, Medline, PubMed, Scopus), and reference lists published between January 2012 and March 2017, was undertaken. Review Methods Studies were critically appraised for methodological quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Data from each study were extracted and categorized according to their primary findings. Results The inclusion criteria were met in 10 studies. Main findings were identified: role of genetic counselling, current knowledge, need for further education, and client satisfaction with nurse genetic counsellors. Conclusion This paper concludes that some nurses do engage in genetic counselling, but how they engage is not consistent, nor is there consensus about what should be the scope of practice. Further investigation into credentialing, role recognition support and education for nurse genetic counselling are strongly recommended. As nurses are widely available, nurses can make a significant contribution to supporting those affected by genetic problems.