Strategies to prepare faculty to integrate genomics into nursing education programs

Abstract

Purpose: Faculty knowledge of genomics, learner competencies, and program requirements for nursing education are described to assist educators in introducing genomic information into nursing undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate, and continuing education programs regardless of geographic location. Selected programs in the United States and the United Kingdom are described to illustrate successful approaches used by nursing faculty to enhance their genomic knowledge in order to increase application of genetic and genomic content within nursing education curricula.

Organizing construct: Nursing education guidelines and nursing competencies provide benchmarks for educators in planning genetic and genomic curriculum content and expected learner outcomes.

Methods: Elements within competencies from the United States and the United Kingdom are reviewed to provide the framework for faculty knowledge. Strategies to address development of faculty knowledge and expertise are suggested. Continuing education faculty development programs and strategies to develop doctorally prepared nurse scientists who will educate future students in the profession are described.

Conclusions: Multiple faculty who are prepared to implement education on genetic and genomic topics are needed at all levels of nursing education. Faculty networking and application of genomic principles to nursing are key elements for sustaining nursing education to produce a nursing workforce that can apply essential genomic knowledge.

Clinical relevance: There is an urgent need to offer genomics in accessible and effective education for nursing practice to optimize health outcomes regardless of geographic location.