Beyond base pairs: Using simulation to build genomic competency in pediatric nurse practitioners.

Abstract

Genomics is a lifespan competency that has relevance for pediatric nursing practice. Identifying individuals who could benefit from genomic healthcare can enable timely diagnosis and treatment to improve health and wellbeing outcomes. Nurse practitioners (NPs) must have genomic competency to provide high quality, comprehensive pediatric care and support families through the continuum of care. To date, integrating genomics into nursing curricula has been inconsistent and piecemeal. We describe the structure, process, and initial outcomes of a novel genomic nursing simulation for pediatric NP students that uses Turner syndrome and Fragile X as exemplar cases.