Evaluation of an Evidence-Based Genomics Education Program for Oncology Nurses
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Date
2023-05
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The Ohio State University
Abstract
Rapid developments in technology and therapy based on genomic information has allowed
precision oncology to become the standard approach to cancer care over the last decade. As
essential members of the healthcare team, it is imperative that oncology nurses understand basic
genomic concepts to inform patient care. However, a genomic knowledge deficit exists among
oncology nurses at all levels of practice because a gap in curriculum in pre-licensure nursing
programs and limited continued education. The objectives of this project were to evaluate
oncology nursing attitudes, improve knowledge, and increase likelihood of adoption of genomics
after engaging in a multi-modality genomics education program. A pre- and post-educational
survey was offered to the program participants. Descriptive statistics and t-tests were performed
to evaluate scores on the pre and post surveys. Cohen's d was used to measure effect size. Most
of the participants (N=257) were baccalaureate (42%) prepared and 87% reported no genomics
content in pre-licensure nursing education. Attitudes of nurses regarding integrating genomics
into oncology were not significantly different upon pre (0.86) and post intervention (0.89)
evaluation (p=0.10) but were high at baseline. Tested knowledge of genomics increased post
intervention from 0.58 to 0.69 (p=0.0001). Approximately, 90% reported an intent to integrate
genomics into their practice whether that be to inform patient education (34%), educate
colleagues (20%), or enhance their patient assessment (19%). A genomics education program
that provided adult learning opportunities and integrated clinical practice resources to be used in
daily practice increased participant's perceived and tested knowledge.
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Keywords
genomics, oncology, nursing, precision medicine