This 3-year convenience sample study explored one pre-licensure cohort of baccalaureate nursing students, from a large diverse urban school of nursing (SON) in the United States, who completed a pre-class assessment survey prior to the beginning of the stand-alone required genetics course in their sophomore year [2nd year of nursing school], followed by a post-class assessment survey at the completion of that course. The mechanism was identical for data collection, utilizing the Genetics/Genomics Literacy Assessment (GGLA), which was again administered at the beginning of their junior year [3rd year] and again as seniors [4th year] to assess their retained genomic knowledge.
Methods:
Two analyses were of interest, utilizing the same survey instrument, Genetics/Genomics Literacy Assessment (GGLA): 1) Comparison of pre vs. post intervention on the sophomore [2nd year] class and 2) Retention of the information through junior [3rd year] and senior year [4th year]. Study conducted from 2014-2016.
Results:
For the total score variable [retention of genomic knowledge over time] data was sophomore vs junior vs senior means of 7.1 vs 6.9 vs 8.7, p<0.001 showing maintenance from sophomore (post-class assessment) to junior year with an increase in the senior year score for the cohort of students. Comparison of pre-class vs post-class on the sophomore class resulted in statistically significant differences demonstrating higher knowledge after class. Enhancement of confidence, perceptions and attitude regarding genomics was evident with comparison of pre-class vs post-class and overtime after taking foundational course. Overall, data showed that students felt that nurse educators need more confidence in teaching and explaining. Patient advocacy requires that nurses’ exhibit knowledge of ethical and legal understanding as it relates to genomics.
Conclusion:
Promoting knowledge and practice integration of universal genomic health promotion requires healthcare professionals and students be knowledgeable and cognizant of their participation to advance client health outcomes. The genomic era impacts nursing education and practice in a multitude of ways. The nursing profession must meet the challenge to prepare future practitioners by incorporating genomic content continuously through-out the curricula and clinical experiences. With the advancements occurring in genomic heath care, genetics is becoming more important in understanding individuals’ risks and best treatment options for different conditions.