Abstract
In the 21st century, knowledge of genetics is closely linked to the ability to provide good care for all patients, not just the few with uncommon genetic diseases. The authors suggest that what is needed in nursing is a comprehensive, three generation pedigree that records a patient's medical, social and environmental history, thereby communicating a 'big picture' scenario for holistic nursing care. The case is made for blending pedigrees, genograms and ecomaps. Such a tool can guide risk factor identification and inform patient and family clinical decisions vis-a-vis care management strategies, psychosocial support and education for reproductive decisions, risk reduction, and the prevention, screening, diagnosis, referral and long-term management of disease. Pedigrees, genograms and ecomaps are defined, and their clinical application and reliability are described. A case example that blends these tools is presented. Ethical, legal, educational and research implications are discussed.
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