We now know that genetic factors can cause disease or affect an individual's susceptibility or resistance to disorders and even to treatment. To provide the best nursing care, it is therefore essential that practitioners and students have a basic knowledge of the science of genetics and how it affects the major areas of nursing expertise.
To address this need, Dr. Felissa Lashley has created this "essentials" guide specifically for nurses. From genetic factors and trends affecting health care today, to the more complex discussions of human variation, every genetic topic critical to the practice of nursing and nursing education is covered, including:
Each chapter examines how genetic information influences treatment and management and is intended to further the development of a nurse's "genetic eye" in the daily care of patients.
Felissa R. Lashley, PhD, RN, FABMGG, is former dean and professor at the College of Nursing at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Prior to that, she was a dean and professor at the Southern Illinois University—Edwardsville and a clinical professor of pediatrics at the School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University—Springfield. She is the first nurse to be certified as a PhD medical geneticist by the American Board of Medical Genetics, and is a founding fellow of the American College of Medical Genetics. She began her practice of genetic evaluation and counseling in 1973.