Nokea
A pregnant patient with a family history of cystic fibrosis (CF) asks the emergency department nurse for information about genetic testing. Which of the following actions is most appropriate for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Although the nurse should understand basic genetics, the emergency department is often not the ideal environment for genetic counselling. A genetic nurse or counsellor is best qualified to address the multiple issues involved in genetic testing for a patient who is considering having children. Although genetic testing does have social implications, a pregnant patient will be better served by a genetic counsellor who will have more expertise in this area. CF is an autosomal-recessive disorder, but the patient might not understand the implications of this statement. Asking why the patient feels genetic testing is important may imply to the patient that the nurse is questioning her value system regarding issues such as abortion.