Genetic Nurse

Last Updated On Aug 22, 2024

Expert Verified: Catherine Burger, MSOL, RN, NEA-BC, LNC

4 Min Read

What is a Genetics Nurse?

A genetics nurse is an RN with additional training and education in genetics. Genetic nurses care for patients who are at risk for, or are affected by, diseases with a genetic component including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease among others. In addition to providing direct patient care, genetics nurses also perform risk assessments, analyze the results and counsel patients on the ongoing management of their conditions or conditions they may be at risk for. Within the highly scientific and research-based specialty of genetics, the genetics nurse plays an important role as patient advocate and compassionate support system.

How to Become a Genetics Nurse

In order to become a genetics nurse, students must first complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. RNs with a BSN degree may then begin entry-level clinical work in hospitals, genetics labs, clinics, cancer centers, etc. However, many genetics nursing positions require a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree emphasizing genetic nursing.

A typical job posting for a genetics nurse position would likely include the following qualifications, among others specific to the type of institution and patient population:

BSN or MSN degree level education and active RN license; Advanced Genetics Nurse Certification may also be preferred (available now for renewal only)
Prior acute care and/or genetics nursing experience
Strong research skills and attention to detail needed to assess and analyze genetic risk factors
Strong interpersonal and communication skills for working with and educating patients and caregivers about their genetic conditions

What Are the Schooling Requirements for Genetics Nurse?

Genetics nursing positions require a minimum of a BSN degree from an accredited nursing school and an active RN license. Due to the complex nature of genetic testing and predisposition, many positions may also require an MSN degree with emphasis on genetics nursing and some experience in the field.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

While professional certification as an Advanced Genetics Nurse, which is offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), exists, it is now eligible for renewal only. For nurses who hold this certification, renewal is available online through the ANCC.

What Does a Genetics Nurse Do?

A genetics nurse cares for patients who are at risk for or affected by a genetic disease or condition. They provide direct patient care, perform and analyze genetic risk assessments, and educate patients and families on their risk profiles for various genetic conditions and how this risk may impact their ongoing health management.

What Are the Roles and Duties of a Genetic Nurse?

Obtain a detailed family history and construct a family history (pedigree) document
Assess and analyze hereditary and nonhereditary disease risk factors
Identify potential genetic conditions or genetic predisposition to disease (i.e. level of risk)
Educate and provide emotional support to individual patients and their families
Provide direct patient care for patients at risk for or affected by diseases with a genetic component
For some advanced practice genetic nurses, they may also facilitate genetic testing and interpret test results and lab reports

Where Do Genetic Nurses Work?

A genetic nurse can work in a variety of settings, including specialty genetics clinics where gene-based diagnoses and therapies are offered, prenatal and reproductive specialty centers, hospitals, cancer centers, and specialty medical practices. Many genetics nurses work in a particular subspecialty of medicine where genetics plays an important role, such as obstetrics, oncology, mental health, and pediatrics. For nurses who specialize in genetics education or research, positions may be found in government or non-profit research centers, academic institutions, or the biotechnology industry.

Genetic Nursing Salary & Employment

According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, genetic nurses can expect a median salary of around $62,450, with a range of $43,410 – $92,240. Genetics is a fairly new and growing segment of the healthcare industry, and as the general population ages and genetic science continues to expand, genetic nurses are expected to be in high demand.