GENETIC COUNSELING

GENETIC COUNSELING

DEFINITIONGenetic councelling is a process by which patients or relatives at risk of an inherited disorder are adviced of the consequence and nature of the disorderINDICATIONGenetic disease in familyBirth defectMental retardation Advanced maternal ageEarly onset of cancer in familyMiscarriageMalformationTendency to develope a neurologic conditionSTEPSDiagnosisPrognosisTreatment

LEGAL AND ETHICAL ISSUESRespect for autonomyBeneficence and non malficencePrivacy and confidentialityJustice and equity

ROLE OF A NURSE IN GENETIC COUNSELINGGuiding a women or couple through prenatal diagnosis.Helping parents make decision in regard to abnormal prenatal diagnostic results.Assisting parents who have had a child with a birth defect to locate needed service and support.Providing support to help the family deal with the emotional impact of a birth defect.Coordinative services of other professionals, such as social workers, physical and occupational therapist, psychologist & dietician.