ONS Releases Position on Cancer Genetics and Genomics

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Oncology nurses’ understanding and application of cancer genetics and genomics can change and improve the practice of general oncology nurses and advanced practice nurses in the course of patient risk assessment, prevention, screening, and treatment of cancer. A new position released by the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) encourages the integration of new evidence-based genetic and genomic information into oncology nursing practice and the education of patients and the public about the potential benefits and limitations of genetic and genomic testing.

The full position Oncology Nursing: The Application of Cancer Genetics and Genomics Throughout the Oncology Care Continuum was published in the January 2013 issue of the Oncology Nursing Forum.

"Since 2003, genetics has merged into the everyday practice of nurses,” said ONS Board of Directors secretary Julie Eggert, RN, PhD, GNP-C, AOCN®. “As nurses in oncology practice, we are experiencing a growing impact of genetics and genomics on the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of cancer in our patients. Some cancers even have prevention and early detection guidelines based on genetics. The new position statement on genetics and genomics in oncology nursing will assist us in understanding our role in this dynamic area of health care."

A work group comprised of ONS Board and staff members continues to work to revise and combine some of the current positions to ensure that all ONS positions are relevant in today’s cancer care environment. All positions and a description of ONS’s position statement program can be found on the ONS website.  

ONS is a professional association of more than 35,000 members committed to promoting excellence in oncology nursing and the transformation of cancer care. Since 1975, ONS has provided a professional community for oncology nurses, developed evidence-based education programs and treatment information, and advocated for patient care, all in an effort to improve quality of life and outcomes for patients with cancer and their families. Learn more at www.ons.org.

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