為生命的語言開一扇窗：遺傳護理學的契機

Unraveling the Language of Life: Opportunities for Genetics Nursing

本文係針對基因學與基因體的定義，護理專業在遺傳照護上的角色與功能，遺傳護理於臨床專業的應用，遺傳護理於倫理、法律和社會議題以及各國與台灣遺傳護理的教育現況作一概述。在當今護理實務上，對遺傳基因與基因體的迷思，乃源自於遺傳基因護理相關的知識和教育訓練的不足，遺傳護理專業師資缺乏及經費培訓的補助的不完善。西方國家有鑑於遺傳疾病的日益增加，逐漸重視遺傳護理的教育和臨床遺傳護理師認證方式，以及倫理、法律相關議題的探討。護理人員若能具備遺傳護理的相關知識，則可以協助病患和家屬了解疾病的相關臨床處置，以及共同面對與預防疾病的發生。期待本文可以喚起護理同業對遺傳護理的重視及省思。

This article describes the definition of medical genetics and genomics, the roles and functions of nursing professionals in genetic nursing applications of genetic nursing in clinic, ethical, legal, and social issues, as well as regarding education of genetic nursing in Taiwan and Western countries. The myth of medical genetics and genomics in today's nursing practice is due to the general lack of genetics knowledge and training amongst nurses; particularly, knowledgeable faculty members and funding for training are scarce. The prevalence of genetics disease is increasing. Therefore, Western countries are paying more attention to the education programs for genetic nursing and clinical certification of medical genetics, as well as the issues related to ethics and legality. If nurses have knowledge in medical genetics and genomics, they can help patients and their families understand clinical evaluation and together confront and prevent occurrence of genetic diseases. It is hoped that this article will capture the attention of nursing professionals to increase their awareness and knowledge in nursing practice regarding the role genetics plays.