Genetic Counceling Flashcards
1
Q
What information do genetic counselors give to patients?
A
- Interpretation of family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence.
- Education about inheritance, testing, management, prevention, resources and research.
- Counseling to promote informed choices and adaptation to the risk or condition.
2
Q
What information do genetic counselors need to collect from the patient?
A
Family, medical, developmental, and reproductive history.
3
Q
Who can benefit from genetic counseling?
A
- Pregnant, or becoming pregnant.
- Children with developmental delays and medical problems with no specific diagnosis or children with a known or suspected genetic condition
- Newborns
- Adults: More often patients are already diagnosed or know they have a specific risk for an adult-onset condition
- Cancer: Focused on patients with a personal or family history of cancer
4
Q
Where do genetic counselors work?
A
University medical centers, private and public hospitals, physicians offices, and diagnostic labs.
5
Q
What is meant by “nondirective” counseling?
A
They share their expertise, knowledge and experiences, but the patient and the patient’s family are responsible for making the decision that they feel is best to their situation.
6
Q
What type of education and certification is required in order to be a genetic counselor?
A
- Trained in medical genetics and counseling techniques.
- Master’s degree in Genetic Counseling
- Certified by exam through the American Board of Genetic Counseling
