Through testing, a patient learns of a genetic disease that he ...

[awywial]

Through testing, a patient learns of a genetic disease that he has inherited from his parents, yet none of his other siblings have inherited the same disease.
 
  The patient tells the nurse that he has always believed his parents didn't want him and now he has proof. What should the nurse counsel this patient?
 
  1. Suggest the patient talk with a counselor to discuss the results of the test and future options.
  2. Ask the patient if he has ever discussed his thoughts and fears with his parents.
  3. Encourage the patient to talk with his siblings about the illness and ask them for help now before he has manifestations of the disease.
  4. Remind the patient that genetic testing is inconclusive, and there is a great chance that the results are wrong.

Question 2

A patient planning to have genetic testing prior to having children tells the nurse that she is fearful that too many people will learn about the test. How should the nurse respond to this patient?
 
  1. The results of the tests are confidential and no one can have the results without your permission.
  2. Most insurance companies will want the results before paying for the tests.
  3. The results will be available to anyone who reviews your medical record.
  4. The doctor will most likely use the results when planning care and treatment for other patients with the same genetic disorder.

[lou]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1

Individuals learning of genetic testing results can have feelings of anger, guilt, confusion, and depression. The nurse should suggest that the patient talk with a counselor to discuss the test results and future options to help the patient work through his feelings. The nurse should not suggest that the patient confront his parents with his thoughts and feelings. The nurse should also not suggest that the patient discuss the test results with his siblings in order to elicit their help and support before the disease manifests. Genetic testing is not inconclusive. This would be an inappropriate suggestion to make to the patient.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1

The nurse should explain that the results of genetic testing are confidential and that the written permission to have access to the results will be needed by the patient. Insurance companies will not need the results of the tests before paying for the tests. The results will be confidential and not accessible by anyone who reviews the patient's medical record. The patient's physician cannot use the test results when planning care and treatment for other patients with the same genetic disorder.