Scope and Standards: Defining the Advanced Practice Role in Genetics

Because knowledge concerning genetics and genomics and its application to oncology care is continuing to grow, oncology nurses must be aware of appropriate advanced scope of practice roles based on education and training. All nurses must develop and maintain knowledge of the field, but advanced practice nurses working in genetics have additional competencies and management expectations. Collaboration among practice levels and disciplines is essential. This article focuses on the advanced practice role as further defined in published resources outlining scope of practice in genetics.

AT A GLANCE

• Genetics should be considered an integral part of oncology advanced nursing practice.
• Nurses should be able to apply genetic nursing standards for the advanced practitioner to specific patient situations.
• Additional competencies are expected of the advanced practitioner specifically related to test selection, as well as interpretation and coordination of care for genetic evaluation and testing.