Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (
PGD), a form of assisted reproductive technology, is a new technology with limited awareness among health care professionals and hereditary
cancer families. Nurses play a key role in the care of patients and are often in an ideal position to discuss and refer patients on sensitive quality of life issues, such as
PGD. Two hundred and one nurses at Moffitt
Cancer Center (MCC) responded to an online survey assessing knowledge and educational needs regarding
PGD and families with hereditary
cancer. The majority of respondents were female (n = 188), white (n = 175), had an RN/BSN degree (n = 83), and provided
outpatient care at the
cancer center (n = 102). More than half of respondents (78%) were unfamiliar with
PGD prior to the survey and respondents who had heard of
PGD had limited knowledge. More than half of the participants reported
PGD was an acceptable option for families with
hereditary cancer syndromes and thought individuals with a strong family or personal history should be provided with information about
PGD. This study indicates that oncology nurses may benefit from and desire education about
PGD. With advances in reproductive technology and options, further
PGD education is needed among healthcare professionals. An examination of current oncology nursing curriculum and competencies regarding genetic education may identify need for future revisions and updates.