Designer genes and critical care nursing: the future is now

Ethical Preparedness and Performance of Gene Therapy Study Co-Ordinators

Little is known about study co-ordinators of gene therapy clinical trials. The purposes of this study were to: (1) describe characteristics of co-ordinators of gene therapy (transfer) clinical trials; (2) assess differences between nurse and non-nurse study co-ordinators; and (3) identify factors indicative of study co-ordinators' role preparation that could affect their role performance. This exploratory correlational study employed a convenience sample of 118 co-ordinators in the USA (55 participants; 47% response rate). The researcher created the Study Coordinator Role Preparedness and Performance Survey to assess factors or correlates of study co-ordinator performance. Analysis of variance was used to compare nurses and non-nurses, and men versus women on their perceived preparedness, perceived quality of orientation, and satisfaction with educational opportunities. The findings contribute to knowledge by identifying present inadequacies in the training of study co-ordinators and in recognizing the need for more effective provision of orientation and continuing education with respect to ethical issues, knowledge of genetic science, and potential research integrity challenges.

Adenovirus in cancer therapy: a gastrointestinal case study

Approved clinical trials involving gene therapy have been taking place for less than 10 years. As more knowledge is gained about genetics and disease, nurses must have a fundamental understanding of what genes do, how gene therapy is administered, and the risks and potential benefits of treatment. New methods for the administration of adenoviral vectors for cancer treatment in the endoscopy lab are currently being developed. By staying abreast of new treatment methods using gene or viral therapy, the gastrointestinal nurse can actively participate in clinical trials. A basic background of genetics and gene therapy in cancer is discussed. Safety issues and nursing implications regarding the administration and recovery of patients following gene therapy in the GI endoscopy lab are also addressed. An actual case study of a patient who participated in a study utilizing an attenuated adenovirus as investigational therapy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma is presented.

Foundations of genetics: genetic structure, function, and therapeutics

Molecular genetics provides the basis for understanding patterns of health and disease in people and is part of the scientific foundation on which acute and critical care nurses should build their practice. The human genome, defined as all the genetic information in the cells of humans, provides the blueprint for protein production and cellular function in the body. Alterations in protein production may result in illness or organ malfunction that has a genetic derivation. One therapeutic strategy that holds promise to manage genetic diseases is gene therapy. Gene therapy, or human gene transfer, occurs when scientists or physicians modify the genetic material in cells for therapeutic purposes. Genetic structure, function, and therapeutic reflect the science of the present and future and have profound practice implications for acute and critical care nurses.

Gene therapy: current and future implications for oncology nursing practice

OBJECTIVES

To provide oncology nurses with the basic concepts of gene therapy related to cancer and to outline their practice roles.

DATA SOURCE

Published professional articles, clinical protocols, and textbooks.

CONCLUSION

Oncology nurses will need to become knowledgeable about the methods and applications of gene therapy for cancer to participate in clinical trials and to develop relevant nursing development plans.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Advances in genetic testing and gene therapies will extend oncology nursing roles in direct patient care, education, advocacy, provision of genetic services, and nursing research. Oncology nurses will also participate in dialogue and development of social policies with regard to the safety, ethical, and social issues related to cancer gene therapy.