Oncology nurses' readiness to implement genomics-informed care: A descriptive, cross-sectional study in a Canadian province.

INTRODUCTION: Cancer care providers need to be equipped to support cancer care recipients in evolving care contexts. Genomics is an increasingly common component of cancer care. There is limited understanding of Canadian oncology nurses' readiness to contribute to genomics-informed cancer care. PURPOSE: To describe factors influencing oncology nurses' implementation of genomics in practice in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL; i.e., knowledge, attitudes, confidence, current practices, and social system influences); and identify predictors of their genomic knowledge. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was administered between September 2023 to February 2024 to nurses working in cancer care in NL. Variables associated with nurses' implementation of genomics-informed practice were measured using the Genomic Nursing Concept Inventory (GNCI©) and select, modified questions from the Genetics Genomics Nursing Practice Survey (GGNPS). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to report findings. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 50 NL oncology nurses. While 46% of participants indicated that patients had initiated conversations about genomics with them in the past 3 months, their knowledge levels and reported confidence with genomics practices were low overall. Despite this, participants indicated largely positive attitudes toward the benefits of adopting genomics in practice and a willingness to learn more. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight opportunities to support oncology nurses with practice-based education and resources, to ensure readiness to meet patients' evolving needs and expectations surrounding genomics-informed cancer nursing care.