In the last decade of the 20th century, government sponsored and private-sector research endeavors in genetics have unveiled remarkable new knowledge that has the potential to improve human health on a global scale. The purpose of this article is threefold. The authors (a) draw attention to accomplishments achieved thus far in setting policies for genetic nursing, (b) recommend a holistic agenda for advancing genetic nursing education policies nationally and internationally, and (c) recommend essential components of policy development that depict nursing’s interest in genetic concerns globally. The authors encourage nurses worldwide to participate in health, social, ethical, and public policy deliberations related to genetics.
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