Table 5.

Nursing competencies in genetics/genomics: revised framework

1	Identify individuals who might benefit from genetic services and/or information through a comprehensive nursing assessment: that recognizes the importance of family history in assessing predisposition to disease, recognizing the key indicators of a potential genetic condition, taking appropriate and timely action to seek assistance from, and refer individuals to, genetics specialists, other specialists and peer support resources, based on an understanding of the care pathways that incorporate genetics services and information.
2	Demonstrate the importance of sensitivity in tailoring genetic/genomic information and services to the individual's culture, knowledge, language ability and developmental stage: recognizing that ethnicity, culture, religion, ethical perspectives and developmental stage may influence the individual's ability to use information and services, demonstrating the use of appropriate communication skills in relation to the individual's level of understanding of genetic/genomic issues.
3	Advocate for the rights of all individuals to informed decision-making and voluntary action: based on an awareness of the potential for misuse of human genetic/genomic information, understanding the importance of delivering genetic/genomic education and counselling fairly, accurately and without coercion or personal bias, recognizing that personal values and beliefs of self and individuals may influence the care and support provided during decision-making and that choices and actions may differ over time.
4	Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the role of genetic/genomic and other factors in maintaining health and in the manifestation, modification and prevention of disease expression, to underpin effective practice: which includes core genetic/genomic concepts that form a sufficient knowledge base for understanding the implications of specific conditions that may be encountered.
5	Apply knowledge and understanding of the utility and limitations of genetic/genomic information and testing to underpin care and support for individuals and families prior to, during and following decision-making, that: incorporates awareness of the ethical, legal and social issues related to testing, recording, sharing and storage of genetic/genomic information, incorporates awareness of the potential physical, emotional, psychological and social consequences of genetic/genomic information for individuals, family members and communities.
6	Examine one's own competency of practice on a regular basis: recognizing areas where professional development related to genetics/genomics would be beneficial, maintaining awareness of clinical developments in genetics/genomics that are likely to be of most relevance to the client group, seeking further information on a case-by-case basis, based on an understanding of the boundaries of one's professional role in the referral, provision or follow-up to genetics services.
7	Obtain and communicate credible, current information about genetics/genomics, for self, patients, families and colleagues: using information technologies and other information sources effectively to do so and applying critical appraisal skills to assess the quality of information accessed.
8	Provide ongoing nursing care and support to patients, carers and families with genetic/genomic healthcare needs: being responsive to changing needs through the life stages and during periods of uncertainty, demonstrating awareness about how an inherited condition and its implications for family members might have an impact on family dynamics, working in partnership with family members and other agencies in the management of conditions, recognizing the potential expertise of individuals, family members and carers with genetic/genomic healthcare needs that develops over time and with experience.