Genetics Short Course

Why Attend

1. Summarize the components, structure, and forms of DNA.
2. Describe the events and processes involved in DNA replication.
3. Compare the locations and processes of transcription, translation, and post-translational modification of proteins.
4. Analyze the differences in function for structural, regulatory, and modifier genes.
5. Explain how penetrance affects dominant expression, recessive expression, and co-dominant expression.
6. Analyze the characteristics of the various patterns of inheritance for single gene traits.
7. Summarize the concepts involved in expression of polygenic traits.
8. Explain the differences in characteristics for normal cells, benign tumor cells, and malignant tumor cells.
9. Differentiate the effects of somatic cell gene mutations and germline cell gene mutations.
10. Compare how mutations in oncogenes and mutations in suppressor genes are thought to contribute to malignant transformation.
11. Explain the variation in cancer development among individuals with similar carcinogenic exposure.
12. Compare the genetics of sporadic, familial, and hereditary cancers.
13. Discuss the current limitations of genetic technology for risk identification, risk reduction, and cancer prevention/treatment.
14. Explain the current and potential roles of gene therapy for cancer.
15. Interpret pedigrees to identify people at increased risk for cancer development.
16. Develop a plan to determine when and how to refer people at increased risk to the appropriate genetics professional.

The Genetics Short Course participants receive a certificate after they have attended the course and have successfully passed the competency exam.

The certificate indicates that the bearer has demonstrated accomplishment in 24 competencies established by the National Coalition for Health Professional Education in Genetics (NCHPEG).

These competencies are as follows:

1.1 Basic human genetics terminology
1.2 The basic patterns of biological inheritance and variation, both within families and within populations
1.3 How identification of disease-associated genetic variations facilitates development of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options
1.4 The importance of family history (minimum of 3 generations) in assessing predisposition to disease
1.5 Role of genetic factors in maintaining health and preventing disease
1.6 The difference between clinical diagnosis of disease and identification of genetic predisposition to disease (genetic variation is not strictly correlated with disease manifestation)
1.13 The components of the genetic counseling process and the indications for referral to genetic specialists.

2.1 Gather genetic family-history information, including an appropriate multigenerational family history
2.2 Identify clients who would benefit from genetic services
2.4 Seek assistance from and refer to appropriate genetics experts and peer support resources
2.5 Obtain credible, current information about genetics, for self, clients, and colleagues
2.8 Participate in professional and public education about genetics
2.9 Educate clients about availability of genetic testing and/or treatment for conditions seen frequently in practice
2.16 Safeguard privacy and confidentiality of genetic information of clients to the extent possible

3.1 Recognize philosophical, theological, cultural, and ethical perspectives influencing use of genetic information
3.2 Appreciate the sensitivity of genetic information and the need for privacy and confidentiality
3.3 Recognize the importance of delivering genetic education and counseling fairly, accurately, and without coercion or personal bias
3.4 Appreciate the importance of sensitivity in tailoring information and services to the client's culture, knowledge, and language level
3.5 Seek coordination and collaboration with interdisciplinary team of health professionals
3.6 Speak out on issues that undermine clients' rights to informed decision making and voluntary action
3.7 Recognize the limitations of their own genetics expertise
3.8 Demonstrate willingness to update genetics knowledge at frequent intervals
3.9 Recognize when personal values and biases with regard to ethical, social, cultural, religious, and ethnic issues may affect or interfere with care provided to clients
3.10 Support client-focused policies

Reserve your seat at the table to attend the Genetics Short Course for Cancer Nurses. The course is supported by a grant from the National Cancer Institute to limit your out-of-pocket expenses.

The program does not have tuition or a registration fee, and travel and per diem expenses are significantly subsidized for participants.