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What Does a Genetics Nurse Do?

Genetics nurses work with patients who have health issues associated with conditions due to heredity. There are two main types. A Genetics Clinical Nurse (GCN) is responsible for:

• recording medical histories
• assessing genetic and non-genetic risk
• developing care plans, educating patients, and helping families deal with their situation
• giving treatments and medicine
• understanding lab data
• working with other medical personnel for optimal care

An Advanced Practice Nurse in Genetics (APNG) may do all of the above as well as:

• diagnose genetic ailments
• give genetic counseling
• prescribe treatments
• conduct research
• write public health articles
• coordinating with resources in the health care community

Education and Training Required to Become a Genetics Nurse

To become a GCN, you must be an RN with a Bachelor's degree of Science in Nursing (BSN). APNGs are RNs with a Master's in Nursing. Both degree programs are available in online format.

The Genetic Nursing Credentialing Commission offers credentials vital to the career of any nursing specialist. GCNs must have a current RN license and fifty genetic cases within the last five years. An APNG must also have letters of recommendation, extensive clinical and teaching experience, and evidence of continued education and publications in genetics.

Typical Characteristics of a Genetics Nurse

All nurses must be responsible, compassionate, and physically able.

As a genetics nurse, you'll work with patients with on-going genetic conditions that may be poorly understood, so you'll need to act as an advocate for individuals, couples, and families.

High Demand for Genetics Nurses

With an aging population and growing genetics technology, genetics nurses are in greater demand than ever before. With the nursing occupation growing at a rate of 22% through 2018, genetics nurses will find jobs in private and public research settings, hospitals, and outpatient facilities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics puts the median salary for nurses at $62,450, although genetics nurses in particular can earn as much as $92,000.

If you like the idea of nursing on the cutting edge of science, research some Genetics Nursing Degree Programs and get to work!