Knowledge and Attitudes of Pharmacogenetics Among Canadian Nurses: Implications for Nursing Education

Pharmacogenetic testing is used to tailor medication recommendations based on an individual's genetic makeup. Increased precision in prescribing through the use of genetics leads a reduction adverse drug reactions resulting decreased morbidity and mortality. Due noted benefits patient health outcomes healthcare costs, growing number Canadian centers community pharmacies are beginning offer pharmacogenetic testing. Previous studies indicate that nurses have minimal education genomics; however, there has been increase attention nursing roles implementation genomic practices recent years. As pharmacogenetics increases, will be expected knowledgeable about play key role education. Results previous show low level knowledge among physicians pharmacists; this area not systematically assessed for nurses. To address gap, cross-sectional study was conducted assess attitudes across Canada. An anonymous online survey completed by 236 participants, including students (n = 84), registered 144), nurse practitioners/nurse clinicians 9). Participants represented 9/10 provinces 2/3 territories The majority participants (65.9%) lacked formal indicated fair or poor understanding clinical setting (93%). mean score questions 34.5%, while 61.1%. Despite their self-reported lack understanding, most had positive towards recognized its ability decrease improve efficacy (81.3%). Most (73.7%) were interested educational offerings related testing, particularly web-based courses seminars/lectures. results Canada may necessary support into practice. However, interest learning opportunities development activities ensure prepared upcoming changes impact