Penny Daugherty on Discussing Patients' Genetics

Penny Daugherty, RN, MS, OCN, Southeastern Gynecologic Oncology, explains how nurses in her practice discuss genetics and genomics with patients.

Daugherty says that information on genetics counseling is distributed to patients. If the patient wishes to discuss the contents of the packet, the nurses make themselves available.

Genetics counselors are also present at support group meetings to answer any questions that patients may have, Daugherty says. Genetics presenters will educate nurses on genetics and genomics so that nurses can provide better care to patients.