Evidence and Practice
Cancer genomics: assessing nurses’ knowledge, confidence and training needs
Challenges and opportunities for cancer nurses in implementing digital health...
Supporting patients who undergo genomic testing for Lynch syndrome
Clinical
Cancer genomics: assessing nurses’ knowledge, confidence and training needs
Why you should read this article: • To enhance your understanding of the growing importance of genomics in cancer care • To read about cancer nurses’ views on, and knowledge of, genomics • To consider cancer nurses’ genomics training needs and what forms training could take Background Advances in genomic medicine in the NHS have had significant implications for cancer care and cancer nursing. However, it is unclear whether nurses and other healthcare professionals responsible for delivering front-line care feel they have sufficient knowledge and confidence in relation to genomics. Aim To assess the level of practice-based knowledge of genomics among UK-based cancer nurses. Method A survey was designed using an online survey platform. The survey reached 474 cancer nurses and 199 of them responded. Data were analysed using the online survey platform, spreadsheets and pivot tables. Findings Respondents reported low confidence in making decisions involving genomics. Only 27% had ordered a genetic or genomic test and only 39% had contacted their clinical genetics team in the past 12 months. Overall, most respondents reported a need to improve their knowledge of genomics. Conclusion There was a clear need to improve knowledge about how to order testing and communicate with specialist genetic teams, as well as to clarify the role of the cancer nurse in this process.
Challenges and opportunities for cancer nurses in implementing digital health...
Why you should read this article: • To learn about digital health technologies that are being developed and piloted in cancer care • To increase your awareness of the barriers to the implementation of digital health technologies • To enhance your understanding of the role of nurses in the digital transformation of the NHS The implementation of digital health technologies (DHTs) in healthcare organisations has increased significantly following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. As a result, people with cancer – many of whom are older adults – may be prompted to use DHTs more frequently as part of their care, for example for monitoring treatment-related side effects. Nurses have an important role in addressing patients’ needs in relation to the use of DHTs and explaining how they can benefit from them. Nurses can also assist in encouraging patients to use DHTs, in alleviating their fears about privacy and data security and in reducing digital health inequalities. This article outlines some of the opportunities and challenges presented by the use of DHTs and explains how nurses can facilitate the uptake of DHTs in cancer services, working with patients to ensure that these technologies suit their needs and preferences.
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