If there is ever a time a family needs support and fast, accurate information it’s when they have a child in intensive care.
The environment is characterised by urgency, complexity and rapid decision making, says a study into the role of genetic counsellors in acute care settings.
The findings, published in the international journal, Genetics in Medicine Open, point to the increasing use of rapid genomic testing for critically unwell children with rare conditions, an increase that brings other complexities.
Genetic counsellors, it says, are well placed to manage these challenges: supporting families, managing their expectations and the expectations of health professionals.
The study recommends specialised professional development for genetic counsellors and other healthcare professionals working in intensive care and dedicated mentoring where ICU specialists, nurses, clinical geneticist and other GCs can share their learned experience.
Tools relating to rapid genomic testing such as standard operating procedures, template letters, standardised reports and flow charts could prevent delays, ensure consistency and increase efficiency, it says.
Read the paper here.