Genetic testing: Do cancer nurses have a role

Abstract

Cancer care nurses are well positioned to provide specific genetic care and counseling. They are highly capable in comprehensively assessing patients and their family members for increased cancer risk, educating them about the availability of testing, making referrals for cancer genetic counseling and risk assessments, and providing follow‑up care. Knowledge in genetic testing will enable cancer nurses to integrate genomics not only into their practice and research but also into policy discussions and debates for the best interest of their patients, families, and the community.